How Much Does a New Air Conditioner Cost?

May 25, 2021
A boy enjoying the table fan air

With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Franklin & South Indy, we are aware that cost is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner might be more reasonable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers, and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through less expensive cooling bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what we recommend.

Replace

  1. Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might last longer, most air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend prepping for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year point. Even if you install 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.
  2. You’ve neglected annual maintenance for many years. Just like a car, your cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this important service can cause reduced efficiency, more recurring repairs, and even a shorter life span.
  3. Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the consequence of overlooking service. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to experience a big malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  4. Your residence feels unpleasant. If your home feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  5. Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. As a result, it could need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and cooling bills reasonable.
  6. Your air conditioner has an R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is due to the fact that R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The best way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have yearly maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by a warranty, we recommend 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 precise cost could be lower or higher.

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

  • The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

We provide free estimates at Winters Heating and Cooling so you can know you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s oversized might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also cause temperature variability and make your home feel less comfy.

At Winters Heating and Cooling, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how spacious your residence is, along with a few other factors. Some of the most typical 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 influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Franklin & South Indy
  • Ductwork quality and age
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since large or picture windows may be lower efficiency
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade
  • Insulation quality and depth
  • How many people live in your home

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how proficiently it consumes 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 crucial to realize:

  • Older air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually more expensive, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Winters Heating and Cooling Now

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you choose. Winters Heating and Cooling is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Franklin & South Indy. From helping you find the right solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 317-406-5382 to begin now!