Does My AC System Need to Be Replaced?
Taking good care of your AC system, with regular maintenance and servicing, is the best way to maximize its lifespan. However, all AC systems do eventually need to be replaced. Your AC might need replacement if you notice any of the following signs.
Your current AC is older than 15 years. The average HVAC lasts around 15 years. If your system is older than this, you may have already noticed some signs that it’s not operating as well as it used to.
Your energy bills are rising. Older HVAC systems are less energy-efficient than newer ones. And the older the system gets, the less efficient it will be, as parts start to wear out. If your HVAC is starting to use more energy, it may just need servicing. However, it may also be a sign that it’s time to start thinking about replacing it.
The AC can’t maintain a consistent temperature. As the system gets older and loses efficiency due to part failure, dirt, or worn seals, it can struggle to maintain a comfortable and consistent temperature.
Your home’s air quality is poor. You may notice an increase in humidity or dust, or unusual smells. These can all be signs that your HVAC is struggling.
Repair costs are increasing. HVAC repairs may keep your system going for a little longer, but at some point, the cost of repairs will increase so much that it’s more cost-effective to replace the system. If your HVAC is at least 10 years old and you’re quoted a repair cost that’s more than one-third of the cost of a new installation, then it may be better to consider air conditioning replacement instead. Dumping good money into worn-out equipment can cost you more in the long run.
What Are My AC Installation Options?
Central Air Conditioning
Central AC includes several different components. The main air conditioning unit is installed outside the house and has a condenser and other components that help generate cool air. This unit is connected to the network of ducts inside your home and a central unit that controls temperature and airflow through the ducts. Most modern homes have central air conditioning, as it’s generally easiest to install the AC duct network during construction.
Ductless (Mini-Split) Air Conditioning
For homes that don’t have the room for a central AC system, there’s the ductless or mini-split air conditioning system. Like the central AC system, these ductless systems also have indoor and outdoor components, but instead of ducts, they have units called air handlers that move cool air through your house. This type of unit is becoming increasingly popular and can be added to areas such as garage conversions to home offices. In the near future, these type of units may become the standard in new homes.
Window/Portable Air Conditioning
These small portable units can be installed into the frame of a window. Alternatively, a portable unit can be connected to a duct that is installed into the window frame. These units aren’t as efficient as central or ductless systems, and a single unit can’t cool an entire house efficiently. They’re also much noisier and can be more expensive to run than central or ductless systems.
What Is the Best AC System for My Home?
In general, the advantages of central air conditioning systems make them the best choice for most homes and families. However, in condos or smaller homes, there may not be enough room to install the network of ducts that a central AC system needs. In this case, the ductless or mini-split systems are the best alternative.
How Much Does Air Conditioning Installation Cost?
The cost of central air conditioning installation in your own home will vary depending on several factors, like:
- Your current AC situation,
- Alterations that may be needed
- The system you want
- The size of the home area you want heated and cooled
- The size of the unit
- The number of units required
- Current ducting throughout the home
- Your budget
The reason the size of your home matters is that the larger your home is, the more capacity is needed for the central cooling unit of the AC system. And if you’re installing new ductwork, a larger home will need a larger network of ducts, which adds to the cost.
What Is the AC Installation Process?
Installation of a new AC system is a three-step process.
- In-Home Visit and Job Estimate
If you are considering replacement of the HVAC unit, the journey begins by having a CW HVAC Service Professional visit your home to review your current AC system and perform a home inspection. This will tell us what capacity your new system needs in order to cool your home efficiently. Along with the size of your home, we also consider your budget and the desired climate controls you want to determine your best AC options.
Once you’ve decided on the type of system you want, we’ll provide you with an estimate for the job, availability of the desired equipment, and a timeframe for completion.
- Removal of the Old System
To remove your old AC unit, we first have to shut off the electricity and/or gas supply lines. Then we’ll remove the refrigerant from the outdoor unit, using a special machine that ensures the refrigerant is stored safely. Once your technician recovers the refrigerant safely, they can remove the rest of the old components.
- New Air Conditioning Installation
Next, CW will install the new system. This includes all the new indoor and outdoor components, plus the wiring, thermostat, and everything else that makes the system work.
Once we’ve finished installing the new air conditioner, the technician will run a series of checks to make sure everything is working properly. Finally, we’ll show you how to operate your new system and get it set up to your specifications.
How Long Does AC Installation Take?
How long your air conditioning installation takes depends on a few factors.
If you’re replacing an existing AC system with a new one, the whole process will generally take around a day. This is assuming all your existing ductwork stays the same.
If it’s a brand-new installation, including a new network of ducts, then installation will take several days to complete. In this case, the time to complete will also depend on the size of your home.
Why Should I Choose CW to Install My Air Conditioning System?
Whether you’re looking at replacing your current AC system or cooling and heating an area of your home that was not previously, CW are the people to call. Thousands of satisfied customers already know about the great work and exceptional five-star service they receive from their Service Professionals. Now you can receive the same excellent service.
- Expert technicians. All our HVAC and plumbing technicians receive ongoing technical training and are committed to customer care. We background-check and screen all techs to ensure they’re consistently honest, reliable, and focused on doing the very best work.
- Same-day appointments. Whenever possible, we offer same-day appointments for inspections, servicing, and repair.
- 24/7 emergency call-outs. When you have an HVAC problem that can’t wait, just call us and we’ll be there. Our call center is available at all hours—day and night—to schedule your appointment.
- Up-front pricing. We’ll perform an inspection, review your case, then provide a written estimate, including options, with no hidden costs.
- Commitment to quality. We use quality parts from the most trusted brands to match the quality of our work.
- We’ll deal with the city permits. If the work requires any city inspections or permits, we’ll take care of arranging applications, payments, and appointments. Let our team handle the heavy lifting.
- Your satisfaction guaranteed. If you’re not happy, we’re not done, and we’ll stay on the job until it meets your expectations—backed up by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and positive ratings on Angi, Expertise.com, HomeAdvisor, and Thumbtack.
Does CW Offer Financing?
Yes! We partner with Synchrony to offer financing options for purchases, installations, and repairs. Financing terms range from 6 to 18 months, with interest as low as 0% with approved credit, as well as other 0% and revolving credit options.
We also offer some of the best warranty options for equipment in the industry. But we don’t stop there: We also warranty our labor, parts, and materials.
CW Offers Expert HVAC Maintenance Services, Repairs, and Installation
Looking for an HVAC company for HVAC repairs, servicing, or installation? Whether it’s routine servicing or an emergency, CW’s expert technicians are here for you. Call us now, we’re ready to help!