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

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Corpus Christi, we are aware that cost tops your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through less expensive electrical bills.

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

When You Should Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might work longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement near 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 tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve skipped routine maintenance for many years. Just like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can cause diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a big breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your house is uncomfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. Consequently, it could need to work more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and utility bills low.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extremely expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

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 inexpensive. The smartest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have yearly maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid 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 provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 exact cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are a few details that affect your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is old or separated.

We provide free estimates at Total Assurance AC & Heating so you can be sure you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can inflate your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also lead to temperature variability and make your residence feel less cool.

At Total Assurance AC & Heating, 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 big your residence is, plus a couple 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Corpus Christi.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as big or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • If your home gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The bigger the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Older air conditioners are rated 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 include more features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed 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 higher SEER rating is usually pricier, it might be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Total Assurance AC & Heating Right Away

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you choose. Total Assurance AC & Heating is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Corpus Christi. From helping you find the recommended solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 361-217-7080 to start today!