With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be removed at some point.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Moline, we are aware that the price is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that buying a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over the years through less expensive utility bills.

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

The Best Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what our professionals advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might work longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend prepping for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. Even if you replace it 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 neglected annual maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can cause diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner could be having difficulty 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 operate more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and utility bills reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or economical. The smartest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have yearly work done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.

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

There are a couple of factors that impact your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

We give free estimates at Freed Heating & Air Conditioning 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 critical. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can inflate your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less cool.

At Freed Heating & Air Conditioning, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The ideal size depends on how spacious your residence is, plus several other things. 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 affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Moline.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because expansive or picture windows can be less efficient.
  • If your residence gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people live in your home.

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 ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Dated air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 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 have extra features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually pricier, it might 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 Freed Heating & Air Conditioning Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you go with. Freed Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Moline. From helping you select the right solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 309-323-9584 to get started now!