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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in York, we realize that the price is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that getting a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through less expensive cooling bills.

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

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might last longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. 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 skipped routine maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can lead to lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the outcome of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a big malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your house feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it may need to work more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and utility costs low.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its detrimental 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 extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The best way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have regular service completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, 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 offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Typical Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, per 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 lower or higher.

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

  • The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or damaged.

We give free estimates at Strine's so you can know 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.

Air Conditioner Sizing

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can inflate your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also create temperature variability and make your residence feel less cool.

At Strine's, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how large your house is, in addition to a few other considerations. 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 things that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in York.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since big or picture windows might be lower efficiency.
  • If your residence has 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 transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:

  • Older air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 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 include extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often higher priced, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Strine's Now

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