With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Moline, we are aware that cost is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner could be more reasonable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through cheaper electricity bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some could work longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve neglected regular maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can result in diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the consequence of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a major breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a result, it may need to run more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and cooling bills low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its detrimental 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 extremely expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The wisest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have regular work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we suggest fixing it.

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 exact cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a couple of factors that influence your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

We offer free estimates at Freed Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be sure 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 critical. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also create temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfortable.

At Freed Heating & Air Conditioning, our technicians have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how big your home is, plus a few other considerations. 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 things that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Moline.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as large or picture windows can be more inefficient.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • 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 rating measures how efficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Older air conditioners are ranked 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 more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically higher priced, it may be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Freed Heating & Air Conditioning Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you choose. Freed Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Moline. From helping you select the ideal solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 309-323-9584 to begin today!