Everything to Know About AC Replacement: Cost to Timing

A dependable and efficient AC system is essential, whether you live in a hot climate or simply prefer cool indoor temperatures. Your comfort and well-being depend on your air conditioner. So, if it is experiencing issues and you are considering a replacement AC unit, this guide answers your questions.

• How long do air conditioners last?
• When should you replace your air conditioner?
• What’s the typical AC unit replacement cost?
• What should you look for in an air conditioning replacement?

See our Heating and Air Conditioning Glossary to learn what each term means.

How Often Should HVAC Be Replaced?

How long do AC units last? On average, new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units can last approximately 10-20 years, and sometimes even longer. Of course, how long a particular unit lasts depends on factors like how heavily it's used, the type of system, and how well it's been maintained with regular tune-ups.

Other important considerations that can prematurely age an AC system include whether the system is properly sized for the home's square footage at the time of installation. Too-small HVAC systems will strain to accommodate the needs of a larger home, while a system that is too large can waste energy and lead to poor air quality, potential humidity (a haven for mold and mildew), and poor unit performance.

If you're not sure which size unit is appropriate or believe your current system is not suited for your home, it's best to consult a professional HVAC technician. The technician can calculate the size needed based on your home's square footage, British Thermal Units (BTUs), and other factors such as your floor plan and the height of your ceilings. If the tech recommends a replacement AC unit, here's what you need to know.

When to Replace an Air Conditioner

Age matters when it comes to AC replacement. If you have a 30-year-old air conditioner, you're among the lucky ones. But while your older air conditioner has hummed along for many years, it has become less efficient at keeping your home cool. What's more, it's costing you more per month than a newer model.

The good news is that HVAC technology has come a long way. The efficiency of a new system will save you money — and keep you cooler — in the long run. Any AC unit replacement cost could put money back in your pocket when it comes to utility bills.

If you don't have an older system, other important clues can help you determine whether you're ready for an air conditioning replacement. For example, if you notice that your energy bills are starting to increase, it may be time for a replacement AC unit. A technician can evaluate your system and determine whether it needs repair or replacement.

Additional telltale signs that it's time to call a technician include:

• Excessive dust in your home
• Hot or cold spots around the house
• Higher-than-normal humidity levels
• A noticeably louder sound from the system when it's running

How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Air Conditioner?

How much does an HVAC replacement cost? The average cost of a new AC unit for a residential home can range from $4,000 to $12,000, including labor and permit fees.

Many factors can affect your HVAC unit cost, including the size of the system you choose, its features, power, and capacity. Include installation in your total AC unit replacement cost estimate. Like any large purchase, it pays to shop around and know what to look for when considering an air conditioning replacement.

What to Look for in a New AC Replacement Unit

Here are six tips that can help you select the right equipment for your needs:

Choose the Correct Size for Your Home

As mentioned above, a properly sized unit plays a huge factor in answering the common question: "Can I just replace my outside AC unit?" Talk with your technician to make sure you select a unit with the right number of BTUs to correctly support your home.

Make Sure it's ENERGY STAR-Certified

You've probably heard of ENERGY STAR, a government-backed certification program where manufacturers, in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), produce cost-saving, energy-efficient items. Products bearing the bright yellow ENERGY STAR sticker have been independently certified to be energy efficient and environmentally friendly-be sure to look for it on your new AC replacement.

Check the SEER2 Number

What's a SEER2 number? It stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio and all AC units sold in the U.S. come with one. The higher the SEER2 number, the higher your air conditioner replacement cost will likely be, yet the trade-off is an extremely energy-efficient unit and potentially lower monthly energy bills. You may not need a super high SEER2 rating if you own a smaller home, for example, or live in a mild climate where you don't run your unit often.

Dial Down the Noise

If your unit is near a bedroom, pay careful attention to the noise rating on your AC replacement. Every air conditioning unit has a decibel (dB) rating; the lower the dB rating, the quieter the unit. Most are in the 40-60 dB range. Features such as noise-reducing fan blades and compressor insulation can help quiet a unit, so if noise is a concern, look for these on the model you're considering.

Upgrade to a Smart Home Thermostat

Upgrading to a smart thermostat makes a significant difference in how you use your replacement AC unit once it's installed. And because usage is a factor in how long your unit lasts, starting on the right foot with a thermostat you can precisely — and conveniently — control via Wi-Fi, and your smartphone will ensure that you're only using your system when it's truly needed.

Consider Additional Features

Nifty perks like zoning (isolating specific rooms or areas vs. a whole house), sleep mode, oscillating vents, "check filter" indicator lights, built-in air purification, and other features are available on some models. You may pay more for these, but you'll feel the benefits, depending on your lifestyle and budget.

Learn about how air conditioning works for more tips.

HVAC Coverage with a Home Warranty

If your air conditioner is covered by a First American home warranty and it breaks down, you can simply request service from us. We'll find a certified professional who will schedule an appointment to visit your home, diagnose the problem, and determine whether to repair or replace your system.

In addition to HVAC coverage, home warranties cover many home appliances and systems, providing the peace-of-mind budget protection you need when covered items fail. Contact us for a free home warranty quote.

The contents of this article are provided for general guidance only. First American Home Warranty does not assume any responsibility for losses or damages as a result of using this information.