With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Kearney, we are aware that the price tops your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner could 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 the years through cheaper electrical bills.

Here’s what to expect when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may run longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to 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 change could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve skipped annual maintenance for too long. Just like a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can cause decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to have a major breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it might need to run more often 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 home comfy and utility expenses low.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extremely expensive. This is because 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 wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The best way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have regular service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 total cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

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

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

We offer free estimates at Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning so you can know you’re getting a fantastic 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 critical. A system that’s too little 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 drive up your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also cause temperature variability and make your house feel less cool.

At Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning, our technicians have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how spacious your home is, along with a couple other considerations. 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 things that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Kearney.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, since large or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it consumes 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:

  • Older air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be a minimum of 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 come with more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually more expensive, it might be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning Right Away

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you select. Thurston Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Kearney. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 308-624-3485 to get started today!