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

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Myrtle Beach, we realize that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner could be more economical than you realize, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through cheaper electricity bills.

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

When You Should Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise prepping 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 costs.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for many years. Just like a car, your cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can lead to decreased efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the outcome of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a major malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your home isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it may need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and energy costs down.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is because 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 smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The wisest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have annual service done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, 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 usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Average 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 total cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are several details that affect your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is dated or damaged.

We give free estimates at Polar Air & Mechanical 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 works with just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also cause temperature instabilities and make your home feel less comfy.

At Polar Air & Mechanical, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your home is, in addition to a few other things. 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 considerations that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Myrtle Beach.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since big or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your home gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

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

  • 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 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 going at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically more expensive, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Polar Air & Mechanical Now

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you select. Polar Air & Mechanical is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Myrtle Beach. From helping you select the ideal solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Call us at 843-253-4874 to start today!