When Should You Replace Your Air Conditioner?
When your air conditioner stops working, knowing if you should repair or replace it can be tricky. Do you wait it out and try to repair it, or do you throw in the towel and replace your air conditioner.
You should consider many factors before making a final decision about replacing your HVAC. Here’s what you need to know.
How Old is Your HVAC?
As with most things in life, age does matter. This is especially true when it comes to your air conditioner. With proper maintenance, the life of an air conditioner is approximately 10 to 15 years. After that, even with biannual inspection, you may start running into trouble. Regular wear and tear reduces efficiency and results in more service calls.
Consider the Cost
When debating between repair and replacement, you should also consider the cost. Yes, replacing your entire air conditioning system can be expensive. When you factor in the cost of ongoing service calls and repairs, you’re not saving any money. Plus, increased energy bills can take its toll on your wallet. In fact, you’ll end up spending more in the long run.
Decreased Efficiency
Like other household appliances, air conditioners lose efficiency. When this happens, it may need a replacement. Besides normal wear and tear, overuse also comes into play. As temperatures continue to rise, it’s not uncommon to use your HVAC more than you did before. Keep in mind that if your unit is newer, using it more often shouldn’t pose a problem. Most homeowners run into trouble when their units are older. This can also be true of systems that are not equipped to withstand constant use. Not only do they lose efficiency, but it also increases your utility bill.
Increasing Energy Bills
Another red flag to be on the lookout for includes inflated energy bills. Even if you keep your thermostat set of 70 or higher, older units or units that need replaced cycle more often. They also run longer than models functioning at peak capacity. We aren’t saying that if you see an increase in your power bill you need to replace your air conditioner. It is a good idea to schedule a service call with our HVAC professional. They can inspect your unit and make sure it’s working as it should. Knowing when to replace your air conditioning isn’t always cut and dry. Sometimes, you need an experienced HVAC professional to help you along the way. With summer right around the corner, now’s the perfect time to prep your AC unit. If you’re still unsure what’s right for you, contact us today at (847) 367-4492. We’re here to help.
