With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Laurel, we realize that cost is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that getting a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through less expensive electrical bills.

Here’s what to prepare for when you’re getting a new air conditioner.

The Best Time to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may last longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year mark. Even if you get a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a big problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. As a consequence, it could need to run more often or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and electrical costs down.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured due to its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or economical. The smartest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have regular maintenance scheduled. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise 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] vary.

There are a few details that influence your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

We provide free estimates at H&C Heating and Cooling so you can be sure 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 crucial. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s oversized might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also cause temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less cool.

At H&C Heating and Cooling, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how large your house is, plus several other factors. Some of the most standard 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 factors that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Laurel.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people live in your home.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how well 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 know:

  • Older air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically higher priced, it may be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with H&C Heating and Cooling Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as important as the model you select. H&C Heating and Cooling is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Laurel. From helping you find the recommended solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 301-960-3247 to begin right away!