With adequate 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 getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Northridge, we are aware that cost is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through less expensive electricity bills.

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

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some may work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise planning for air conditioning replacement close to 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 tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve skipped annual maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can cause decreased efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your home feels unpleasant. If your home feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. As a consequence, it could need to run more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house cool and energy bills down.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced as a result of its damaging 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 since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 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 best way to stop emergency repairs is to have annual service completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently 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 determined by your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of 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 lower or higher.

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

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

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

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can drive up your cooling expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also cause temperature variability and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how spacious your home is, in addition to several other things. 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 things that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Northridge.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, because large or picture windows may be more inefficient.
  • If your house has 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 ranking measures how efficiently it uses 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 essential to be aware:

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 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 come with extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually more expensive, it may be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you select. Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Northridge. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at (818) 727-9993 to start today!