With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Richmond, we know that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner might be more economical than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive cooling bills.

Here’s what to anticipate when you’re installing a new air conditioner.

When to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be tricky. Here’s what our pros recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might last longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you install a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this swap could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve avoided regular maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can result in diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your home feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a result, it could need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and utility bills down.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extremely expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or economical. The best way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have regular maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Typical Air Conditioner Cost

Most homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, according to national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your exact cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are several aspects that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or inefficient.

We offer free estimates at Refrigeration Systems Ltd. so you can be confident you’re getting a great deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can increase your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfy.

At Refrigeration Systems Ltd., our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how large your home is, plus a few other factors. Some of the most common sizes include:

  • 2 ton, which cools up to 1,000 square feet
  • 3 ton, which cools up to 1,600 square feet
  • 4 ton, which cools up to 1,900 square feet
  • 5 ton, which cools more than 2,000 square feet

Other considerations that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Richmond.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since expansive or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people live in your home.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how proficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The bigger the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to be aware:

  • Dated air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be at least 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy requirements. As of 2017, these SEER rating requirements have saved homeowners trillions of dollars.
  • ENERGY STAR®-certified air conditioners begin at 14.5 SEER.
  • Higher SEER-rated air conditioners have additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually higher priced, it might be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Refrigeration Systems Ltd. Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you go with. Refrigeration Systems Ltd. is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Richmond. From helping you find the recommended solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 778-693-2532 to start today!