With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated eventually.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Sacramento, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through less expensive cooling bills.

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

When to 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 older than 10 years old. While some could work longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year mark. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve neglected annual maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can lead to decreased efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the consequence of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your home isn’t comfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it becomes older. As a result, it might need to operate more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and electrical costs down.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also referred to as 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 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 smartest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have annual maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of 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 precise cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are several factors that impact your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you install, as 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 old or damaged.

We offer free estimates at Bishop’s HVAC so you can be sure you’re getting a fantastic 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 crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your cooling bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also create temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfy.

At Bishop’s HVAC, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The ideal size depends on how large your residence is, along with several 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 climate in Sacramento.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s essential to be aware:

  • Older air conditioners are classified 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 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed all the time, 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 greater SEER rating is typically more expensive, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Bishop’s HVAC Now

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you select. Bishop’s HVAC is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Sacramento. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 916-591-6889 to get started today!