With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be removed at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Winnipeg, we realize that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through cheaper cooling bills.

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

When You Should Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could run longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement around 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 skipped regular maintenance for many years. Just like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this essential service can result in lower efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of not doing maintenance 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, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and energy costs down.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving 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 ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The wisest way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have regular work completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with 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 major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we recommend fixing it.

General Estimate of 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 different.

There are several details that impact your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you install, because 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 aging or separated.

We provide free estimates at Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be confident you’re getting a great 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 crucial. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can drive up your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning, our professionals 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 house is, plus several other things. 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 factors that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Winnipeg.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, since large or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

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

  • Old air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 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 come with extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling preferences. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically more expensive, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you go with. Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Winnipeg. From helping you find the right solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with us is a breeze. Reach us at 204-272-8128 to get started now!