With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Wisconsin Rapids, we are aware that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you realize, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through lower electrical bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some may run longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest prepping 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 bills.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this critical service can lead to decreased 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 not doing maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to have a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue you should replace it.
  • Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. Consequently, it might need to run more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and cooling bills down.
  • Your air conditioner uses 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 produced because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or reasonable. The smartest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have regular work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 aspects that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We give free estimates at Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc so you can know you’re getting a great deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too large could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can drive up your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also cause temperature instabilities and make your house feel less cool.

At Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how spacious your home is, along with a few other things. 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 factors that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Wisconsin Rapids.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as large or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it consumes electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked 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 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 include more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually pricier, it may be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc Today

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you select. Rapids Sheet Metal Works Inc is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Wisconsin Rapids. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 715-301-0256 to start today!