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

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Moline, we realize that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner could be more reasonable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through lower utility bills.

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

When to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could run longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. 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 bills.
  • You’ve avoided regular maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can result in diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the result of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to have a big problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your home isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. As a result, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and utility 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 manufactured 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, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is because 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 ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The wisest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have yearly work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 different.

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

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

We offer free estimates at J.L. Brady Company LLC so you can know you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with 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 residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your cooling expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature instabilities and make your house feel less cool.

At J.L. Brady Company LLC, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how large your home is, along with several other factors. 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Moline.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, since expansive or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your home has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

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 transforms 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 crucial to be aware:

  • Older air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 requirements. 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 include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often pricier, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with J.L. Brady Company LLC Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you select. J.L. Brady Company LLC is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Moline. From helping you select the right solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Contact us at 309-517-7511 to get started now!