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

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Houston, we realize that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The bright side is that getting a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive cooling bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might last longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement around 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for too long. Just like a car, your cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can lead to decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the consequence of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. Consequently, it may need to operate more often or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and electrical expenses down.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The smartest way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have annual maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, 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 is determined by your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.

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 total cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are a few factors that affect your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

We provide free estimates at Air Current AC & Heat so you can be confident you’re getting a fantastic 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 critical. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can increase your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also create temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less cool.

At Air Current AC & Heat, our technicians have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how spacious your house is, plus several 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 weather in Houston.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, since expansive or picture windows can be more inefficient.
  • If your residence gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently 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.
  • Updated 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 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast all the time, 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 higher SEER rating is often more expensive, it might be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Air Current AC & Heat Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as important as the model you go with. Air Current AC & Heat is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Houston. From helping you select the recommended solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 713-322-4318 to start right away!