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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Hasbrouck Heights, we are aware that cost 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 think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through cheaper cooling bills.

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

The Best Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might run longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend prepping for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. Even if you install 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 costs.
  • You’ve avoided routine maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of skipping maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a major malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house isn’t comfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it could need to work more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and electrical expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on 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 continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The wisest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have regular work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often 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 is up to your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of 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 precise cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a few aspects that influence your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at ACE Solutions so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can drive up your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also lead to temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At ACE Solutions, our techs have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how large your home is, along with 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 factors that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Hasbrouck Heights.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since large or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your residence gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it uses electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s essential to realize:

  • Older air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 regulations. 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 extra 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 customized for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually pricier, it may be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with ACE Solutions Now

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you go with. ACE Solutions is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Hasbrouck Heights. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 201-426-0650 to begin now!