With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. 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 Chelan and Wenatchee, we are aware that cost is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner might be more economical than you are aware, due 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 cheaper electrical bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be hard. Here’s what we advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year age. 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 costs.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can lead to diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a major problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your house is uncomfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it might need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and electrical expenses down.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using 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 portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The best way to prevent emergency repairs is to have regular maintenance scheduled. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

Many homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, according to national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your exact cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are several factors that impact your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is dated or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at Lakeside Heating & Air so you can be confident 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.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your cooling bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also lead to temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less comfy.

At Lakeside Heating & Air, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The size you need depends on how spacious your home is, along with a few other factors. 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 considerations that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Chelan and Wenatchee.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as big or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your home gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

When you’re getting 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 a minimum of 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually pricier, it might be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Lakeside Heating & Air Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you select. Lakeside Heating & Air is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Chelan and Wenatchee. From helping you find the recommended solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Contact us at 509-284-4265 to start right away!