With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in York, we realize that cost tops your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over the years through lower electrical bills.

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

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older 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 around the 10-year point. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this swap could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve neglected regular maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can lead to diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the outcome of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a major breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it may need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and energy bills down.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced due to its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The smartest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have yearly maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Typical 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 exact cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a few aspects that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at Strine's so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Sizing

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can drive up your cooling bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also create temperature instabilities and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Strine's, our technicians 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 residence is, plus a couple other considerations. Some of the most standard 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 affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in York.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as large or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • If your house receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The bigger the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Older air conditioners are ranked 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 come with extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically pricier, it could be eligible for additional 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 Strine's Now

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you select. Strine's is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in York. From helping you select the right solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 717-383-4479 to start today!