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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Northridge, we realize that the price is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that getting a new air conditioner might be more reasonable 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 likely pay off over the years through lower utility bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might run longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year age. Even if you install a new one 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 neglected regular maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this essential service can lead to lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a major problem. 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 humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it ages. As a consequence, it might need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and energy costs down.
  • Your air conditioner uses 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 produced due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The best way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have regular service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 exact cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are several factors that affect your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or separated.

We offer free estimates at Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also create temperature instabilities and make your house feel less comfy.

At Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how large your house is, in addition to a few other considerations. Some of the most typical 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 weather in Northridge.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because big or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

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

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

  • 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 at least 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy regulations. 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually higher priced, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you select. Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Northridge. From helping you find the ideal solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at (818) 727-9993 to start right away!