With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. 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 Cedar Rapids, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The bright side is that getting a new air conditioner could be more economical than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through lower electricity bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might work longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise getting ready 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 tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve skipped regular maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of not doing tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a major breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your home feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping 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. As a consequence, it may need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and energy expenses down.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using 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 quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The wisest way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have regular service done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often 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 protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

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 exact cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are several aspects that impact 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 required if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We give free estimates at Ilten's so you can be confident you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can increase your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also cause temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Ilten's, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how large your house is, plus a few 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 temperatures in Cedar Rapids.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as big or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your home has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

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

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s important 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 no less than 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often higher priced, it may be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Ilten's Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you go with. Ilten's is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Cedar Rapids. From helping you select the right solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Reach us at 319-208-2351 to get started now!