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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Albuquerque, we know that the price is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that buying a new air conditioner may be more economical than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through lower utility bills.

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

When to 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 might run longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to 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 expenses.
  • You’ve neglected annual maintenance for too long. Just like a car, your cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to lower efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a major malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.
  • Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. As a result, it might need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and cooling expenses low.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good 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 develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or reasonable. The wisest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have annual maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, according to 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 lower or higher.

There are a few details that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or separated.

We give free estimates at Tru Air Systems LLC so you can know you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

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

At Tru Air Systems LLC, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how big your residence is, along with a few other factors. 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Albuquerque.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, because expansive or picture windows can be less efficient.
  • If your home has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • 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 number measures how well it consumes 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 important to be aware:

  • 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 a minimum of 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 include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often higher priced, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Tru Air Systems LLC Right Away

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you choose. Tru Air Systems LLC is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Albuquerque. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 505-226-3525 to get started today!