You may have been noticing that your air conditioner hasn’t been working as well as it used to. Or, maybe it’s stopped working entirely.
So, what do you do now? You have two options: replace or repair your unit.
How do you know which is the best option for you and your home?
Consider the following factors to help you make your decision:
The Age of Your Unit
One of the main things you should consider is how old your unit is. If it’s over 10 years old, then it may be time for a replacement. A new unit will be more efficient and will likely last longer than a repaired unit. Newer units have higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEER) than older models. While the current minimum rating is 13 SEER, it was 10 SEER in 2006. That means that newer units use less energy than units manufactured just 16 years ago. Also, if your AC was manufactured before 2006, it no longer meets minimum federal standards. The average lifespan of an AC unit is 15-20 years. So, if your unit is on the older end of that range, it may be time for a new air conditioning installation. The 5,000 rule can also help you decide whether to repair or replace your unit. This rule says that if the cost of AC repair multiplied by the age of the unit is more than $5,000, you should replace the unit. Otherwise, the unit should be repaired.
Frequency of AC Unit Repairs
If your unit breaks down frequently, it may be time for a replacement. If you find yourself making repairs several times a year or more, then a new unit may save you money in the long run.
Regular maintenance can help prevent some of the need for repairs. However, even with regular maintenance, your unit may still break down from time to time as it gets older. While it is normal for your unit to require occasional minor repairs, frequent or major repairs are a sign that your unit is failing. Replacing your unit before it completely breaks down will save you the hassle and expense of having to deal with a complete breakdown.
Air Conditioner Efficiency
Your AC unit is inefficient if it runs continuously, doesn’t cool your home evenly or doesn’t maintain the temperature you set it at. If your unit is more than 10 years old, it may be less efficient than a newer model and be costing you more on energy bills. While a new AC will cost you a significant amount, it will also save you money on your energy bills. A new, more efficient unit will use less energy and, therefore, cost you less money. In fact, over time, the savings on your energy bills may even cover the cost of the new unit.
Newer models are able to save energy because they have modern features like programmable thermostats, dehumidifiers and variable speed motors.
Type of AC Unit Repairs Needed
Some types of repairs are more expensive than others. Replacing the compressor or condenser coils is typically more costly than other types of repairs. If you’ve had your unit for more than 10 years, it’s likely that you’ll need one of these types of repairs. These repair costs can add up over time. If you find yourself making several such repairs every year, it may be less expensive in the long run to replace your unit. DeZiel Heating & AC is a full-service HVAC contractor that has been providing AC repair and replacement services for over 20 years.
Our experienced technicians will help you decide whether repairing or replacing your unit is the best option for you. We’ll also help you choose a new unit that is the right size for your home and budget. HVAC Expert Recommendations You should always consult with an HVAC expert before making a decision to repair or replace your AC unit. With the experience they have, they will be able to advise you on the best option for your home. They can also inspect your unit and diagnose any problems. Based on their findings, they’ll be able to give you their professional recommendation. Consider the factors above and consult with an HVAC expert to help you decide whether to repair or replace your unit. Making the decision early on can save you time and money in the long run.
Contact Us For All Your AC Repair And Replacement Needs If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your AC unit, the experts at DeZiel Heating & AC are here to help. We offer a variety of AC services, including repair, replacement, installation, and maintenance. Contact us today at (763) 200-5453 to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you choose the best option for your needs and budget.
