With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated eventually.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Manassas, we realize that the price tops your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner might be more economical than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through cheaper electrical 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 professionals suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you get a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve neglected annual maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can result in diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the outcome of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a major problem. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. As a result, it could need to operate more often or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and utility costs low.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing 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 less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The best way to stop emergency repairs is to have yearly service completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, 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 typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of 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] vary.

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

  • The air conditioner model you install, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at Woody's Sudden Service so you can be confident you’re getting a great deal. And with our full 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 will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s oversized might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can increase your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less cool.

At Woody's Sudden Service, our professionals have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how spacious your house is, along with a couple 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 weather in Manassas.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as big or picture windows may be more inefficient.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how well it uses electricity to create cooling. The bigger the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s essential to know:

  • Older air conditioners are rated 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 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often pricier, it might be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Woody's Sudden Service Right Away

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you choose. Woody's Sudden Service is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Manassas. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 703-278-2036 to start today!