With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed down the road.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in The Bay Area, we are aware that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner could be more economical than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through lower electrical bills.

Here’s what to expect when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

When You Should Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may last longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement near 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 tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve skipped routine maintenance for too long. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have routine 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 needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your home feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it becomes older. Consequently, it may need to run more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and utility costs low.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is due to the fact 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 reasonable. The smartest way to stop emergency repairs is to have yearly service done. 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 come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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] vary.

There are a few aspects that influence your total cost, including:

  • 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 dated or separated.

We give free estimates at Contra Costa Heating & AC 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 fits just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too large could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can inflate your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This may also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Contra Costa Heating & AC, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how big 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 influence air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in The Bay Area.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, because big or picture windows might be lower efficiency.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how proficiently it uses 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 crucial to be aware:

  • Old 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 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually pricier, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Contra Costa Heating & AC Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you select. Contra Costa Heating & AC is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in The Bay Area. From helping you find the ideal solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Reach us at 510-343-9841 to get started right away!