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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Phoenix, we know that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over the years through less expensive cooling bills.

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

When You Should Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might last longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year age. Even if you get 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 costs.
  • You’ve avoided regular maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can result in decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer 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 residence is uncomfortable. If your home feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. Consequently, it might need to run more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and utility bills down.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced due to its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The wisest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have yearly service done. 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 come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often 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.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 total cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are several factors that affect your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you select, 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 offer free estimates at Integrity AC & Heating LLC so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can increase your cooling expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also lead to temperature instabilities and make your home feel less cool.

At Integrity AC & Heating LLC, our professionals have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how big your house is, in addition to a couple other things. Some of the most typical 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 temperatures in Phoenix.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, as expansive or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s important to realize:

  • Older air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically higher priced, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Integrity AC & Heating LLC Now

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as important as the model you go with. Integrity AC & Heating LLC is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Phoenix. From helping you find the right solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Contact us at 602-971-0567 to get started today!