With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Norco and St. Charles Parish, we are aware that the expense tops your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner could be more reasonable than you are aware, 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 cheaper electricity bills.

Here’s what to anticipate when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

When You Should Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be difficult. Here’s what we suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some could last longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement close to 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve skipped routine maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can cause diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of not doing tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a big problem. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your home feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a clue you should replace it.
  • Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. Consequently, it could need to run more repeatedly 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 utility expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also called 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, repairing that would be extremely expensive. This is because 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 ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The smartest way to prevent emergency repairs is to have annual work completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, 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 often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

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

There are several aspects that affect your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you install, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or separated.

We provide free estimates at Mayeuxs AC & Heating so you can be sure you’re getting a good 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 essential. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This may also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Mayeuxs AC & Heating, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The size you need depends on how spacious your house is, plus a few other things. 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 things that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Norco and St. Charles Parish.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, as expansive or picture windows might be lower efficiency.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people live in your home.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently 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 crucial to be aware:

  • Older air conditioners are ranked 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 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often higher priced, it may be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Mayeuxs AC & Heating Today

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you select. Mayeuxs AC & Heating is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Norco and St. Charles Parish. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at (985) 764-2426 to start right away!