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

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Siloam Springs, we realize that the price is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner could be more economical than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through cheaper utility bills.

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

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be difficult. Here’s what we suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might work longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you replace it 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 annual maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can lead to decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the consequence of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your home isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it may need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house cool and cooling expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extremely expensive. This is since 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 wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The wisest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have regular maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by 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.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 precise cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are several factors that affect your total cost, including:

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

We give free estimates at Siloam Springs Heating & AC 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 accommodates just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s oversized could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less cool.

At Siloam Springs Heating & AC, our professionals have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how big your home is, in addition to a couple other things. 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 factors that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Siloam Springs.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because expansive or picture windows may be more inefficient.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • 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 number measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Older air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be at least 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually higher priced, it may be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Siloam Springs Heating & AC Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you choose. Siloam Springs Heating & AC is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Siloam Springs. From helping you find the ideal solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Contact us at 479-308-8176 to get started right away!