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 eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Manassas, we realize that cost tops your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, thanks to 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 electricity bills.

Here’s what to prepare for 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 tricky. Here’s what we suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could run longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. 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 bills.
  • You’ve skipped routine maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can cause decreased efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a big malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your house is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to run more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and utility expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is since 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 smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The wisest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have yearly maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently 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 usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is protected by 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 precise cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are several details that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is dated or separated.

We provide free estimates at Fire & Ice HVAC 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 fits just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also cause temperature instabilities and make your home feel less comfortable.

At Fire & Ice HVAC, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your house is, along with a couple 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 considerations that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Manassas.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, as expansive or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • 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 essential to know:

  • Dated air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically higher priced, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Fire & Ice HVAC Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as important as the model you select. Fire & Ice HVAC is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Manassas. From helping you choose the right solution for your residence to going over financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 703-595-4157 to begin today!