With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Mason City, we know that the price is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that getting a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you think it is, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through lower cooling bills.

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

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may run longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. Even if you get 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 skipped annual maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a big breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your house is uncomfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it becomes older. Consequently, it may need to work more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and electrical costs low.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

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 wisest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have yearly maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid 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 provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Typical Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 a few details that affect your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • 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 Mechanical Air Systems Co 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 accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can drive up your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also lead to temperature variability and make your home feel less comfortable.

At Mechanical Air Systems Co, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how spacious your house is, along with several other considerations. 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 factors that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Mason City.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since expansive or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your house receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

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

  • Older 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually higher priced, it may be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Mechanical Air Systems Co Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as important as the model you select. Mechanical Air Systems Co is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Mason City. From helping you find the recommended solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 641-243-4654 to get started now!