When your air conditioner in Dresden fails, it can be hard to know if it’s time for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a better option for the future. The answer isn’t identical for every homeowner. E.g., a system that has been serviced regularly could be a better candidate for an AC repair because it will probably have a longer lifespan than another system that hasn’t been maintained. Many other factors should be taken into account additionally to this. We’ve got some questions that can help direct you.
How old is your system and how often are you repairing it?
The age of your air conditioner is a big factor in your decision to arrange an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t operate as effectively as they did when they were new—and particularly not as efficiently as a new, energy-efficient model. In fact, you could decrease your energy consumption by more than you may think if you replace your outdated system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Most often, this savings will rationalize investment in a replacement system.
So how old is “too old”? That can vary based on your specific equipment and how well it’s been cared for, but Energy Star proposes upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your existing central air conditioner is greater than 10 years old.
Outside your unit’s age, check out your AC repair history. If your system has broken down a few times, it’s likely to stop working again—this situation can end up costing you more money in the future. When you take into account likely rebates and improved efficiency, is a new system going to be more cost-effective in the future?
Many technicians recommend following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your system by the cost of the AC repair. If it’s more than $5,000, change the system. If it’s less, try the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house cozy enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t working properly.
- Are your energy bills increasing without enhanced usage? This is a symptom that your air conditioner is on the fritz.
- Is your system properly sized? If your system is too small for your home, it can’t function properly. Just the same, if you’ve just taken measures to make your home more energy efficient, your system can actually be larger than you need to cool a very efficient home.
If you’re not sure if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to think about a replacement, McFadden Heating & Cooling can help! Our experts can help you determine how much life remains in your system and what the best option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 1-866-781-0111 to setup an appointment for us to check it out.