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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Mankato area, we realize that cost is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more reasonable than you realize, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive electricity bills.

Here’s what to expect when you’re installing a new air conditioner.

When to 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 older than 10 years old. While some could work longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year age. Even if you install 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 bills.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a major problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and electrical costs low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced due to its detrimental 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 because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The wisest way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have regular maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically 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 protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

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

There are several aspects that influence your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is dated or damaged.

We give free estimates at Northern Comfort Inc so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our full 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 essential. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too large could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can drive up your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also cause temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfy.

At Northern Comfort Inc, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your home is, plus a few 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 things that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Mankato area.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because large or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s important to be aware:

  • Old air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • New air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be a minimum of 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is typically higher priced, it may 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 Northern Comfort Inc Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you go with. Northern Comfort Inc is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Mankato area. From helping you choose the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Call us at 507-387-6596 to start today!