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

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Shamokin and Sunbury, we are aware that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you are aware, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through less expensive electricity bills.

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

When to 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 more than 10 years old. While some could run longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement near 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 expenses.
  • You’ve skipped regular maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it could need to work more often or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and cooling bills low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact 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 wisest way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have regular work 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 gives 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

The majority of 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] be lower or higher.

There are a couple of details that affect your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or separated.

We offer free estimates at LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Sizing

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s oversized could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can increase your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also lead to temperature variability and make your house feel less comfortable.

At LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc., our professionals have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The size you need depends on how spacious your residence is, plus 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 things that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Shamokin and Sunbury.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since big or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people live in your home.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently 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:

  • Older air conditioners are rated 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 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 include more features to help you save more. These features may entail 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 higher SEER rating is usually pricier, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you go with. LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Shamokin and Sunbury. 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 570-648-0748 to get started today!