With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Longview, we know that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you think it is, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through cheaper utility bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what we suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might last longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year point. Even if you get a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve skipped regular maintenance for many years. Just like a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can cause lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your home isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. Consequently, it could need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and utility costs down.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The best way to stop unexpected repairs is to have yearly service done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid 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 offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, based on 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 lower or higher.

There are a couple of details that impact your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We give free estimates at Goode Bros AC & Heating so you can be confident you’re getting a great deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s oversized might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can drive up your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Goode Bros AC & Heating, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how big your residence is, plus a couple 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Longview.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, because big or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how efficiently 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 essential to be aware:

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be no less than 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy mandates. 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 come with more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is typically higher priced, it may be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Goode Bros AC & Heating Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you choose. Goode Bros AC & Heating is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Longview. From helping you select the recommended solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 903-284-2612 to start now!