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 replaced down the road.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Mankato area, we know that the price is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner may be more economical than you are aware, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through less expensive cooling bills.

Here’s what to anticipate when you’re installing a new air conditioner.

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year mark. Even if you install 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 bills.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the outcome of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a big problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your house feels too sticky or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. As a consequence, it could need to work more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and utility expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made 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, repairing that would be extremely 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The wisest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have regular work done. But when repairs are only needed not very often 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 usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Typical 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] vary.

There are several factors that influence your total cost, like:

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

We give free estimates at Northern Comfort Inc so you can be sure you’re getting a good 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 crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfy.

At Northern Comfort Inc, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how spacious your house 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 Mankato area.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, because expansive or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people live in your home.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The greater the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s essential to be aware:

  • Dated air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be no less than 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 100% continuously, 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 typically pricier, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Northern Comfort Inc Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you choose. Northern Comfort Inc is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Mankato area. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 507-387-6596 to get started today!