With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in St. Louis, we realize that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through cheaper utility 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 may be tricky. Here’s what our pros suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you get a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
- You’ve avoided regular maintenance for many years. Just like a car, you cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking maintenance. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to suffer a major breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your house feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
- Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a result, it may need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and cooling bills low.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarly expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The best way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have routine service done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is protected by 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 precise cost could be different.
There are several factors that affect your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you install, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size you need.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or damaged.
We provide free estimates at Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating 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 accommodates just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too little will struggle to keep your home cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also create temperature instabilities and make your house feel less comfortable.
At Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how large your residence is, plus a couple 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:
- The climate in St. Louis
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows you have and the style, as big or picture windows might be lower efficiency
- If your residence gets more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and thickness
- 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 number measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:
- Older 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 include more features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often pricier, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating Right Away
When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as important as the model you choose. Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in St. Louis. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 314-262-4541 to begin now!