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

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Los Angeles, we are aware that the price is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that getting a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you are aware, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive cooling 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 can be hard. Here’s what our pros recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could work longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend planning 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve neglected regular maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can lead to decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the outcome of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your home feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. As a result, it may need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and electrical bills low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact 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 wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The best way to prevent emergency repairs is to have annual work done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often 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 under warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, per national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your total cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are a few aspects that influence your total cost, such as:

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

We offer free estimates at AZ Air Conditioning and Heating so you can be sure you’re getting a great 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 too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also create temperature variability and make your house feel less comfy.

At AZ Air Conditioning and Heating, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how big your house 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 things that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Los Angeles.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because expansive or picture windows might be lower efficiency.
  • If your home gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

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

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to know:

  • Dated air conditioners are rated 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 mandates. 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is typically higher priced, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with AZ Air Conditioning and Heating Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you choose. AZ Air Conditioning and Heating is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Los Angeles. From helping you choose the right solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 800-296-5088 to get started today!