With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated eventually.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Saint Louis, we know that cost tops your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner might be more economical 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 usually pay off over its life span through less expensive utility bills.

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

When You Should Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be difficult. Here’s what our professionals advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could run longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to 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 bills.
  • You’ve skipped annual maintenance for too long. Much like a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this critical service can lead to lower efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the consequence of skipping maintenance But as your air conditioner ages 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 house isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. Consequently, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and cooling bills reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarily 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 wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have annual work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. 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 is determined by your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, based on national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your precise cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

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

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or separated.

We offer free estimates at Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating so you can be confident 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 essential. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s oversized could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can increase your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also lead to temperature variability and make your residence feel less cool.

At Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how big your home is, along with a couple other factors. Some of the most common 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 Saint Louis.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, since large or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how efficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The greater the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial 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 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 more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually more expensive, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you select. Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Saint Louis. From helping you choose the right solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with us is a breeze. Reach us at 314-262-4541 to start now!