With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Shamokin and Sunbury, we know that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner might be more reasonable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through cheaper cooling bills.

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

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend prepping for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year age. 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 skipped annual maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this critical service can result in lower efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a big breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. As a result, it may need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and energy bills reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has 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 due to its detrimental 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 extremely 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have regular service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, per 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 details that impact your total cost, such as:

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

We provide free estimates at LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. so you can know 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 crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also lead to temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less cool.

At LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc., our professionals 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 house is, plus a couple other considerations. 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 things that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Shamokin and Sunbury.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since big or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

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

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 requirements. 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often more expensive, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you select. LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Shamokin and Sunbury. From helping you find the ideal solution for your residence to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 570-648-0748 to begin today!