When your air conditioner in Macon stops working, it can be difficult to know if it’s time for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a better option for the long term. The answer isn’t the same for every homeowner. E.g., a system that has been well maintained could be a smarter candidate for an AC repair because it will generally have a longer lifespan than another system that hasn’t been maintained. Many other aspects 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 huge factor in your verdict to arrange an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t function as effectively as they did when they were new—and particularly not as effectively as a new, energy-efficient model. In fact, you could decrease your energy consumption by more than you thought possible if you exchange your aged system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Usually, 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, examine your AC repair history. If your system has failed a couple of times, it’s prone to break down again—this circumstance can end up costing you more money in the long run. When you think about likely rebates and increased efficiency, is a new system going to be more economical over time?
Many professionals recommend following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your unit by the cost of the AC repair. If it’s more than $5,000, exchange the system. If it’s less, just get the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house cool enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t keeping up.
- Are your energy bills increasing without enhanced usage? This is a sign that your air conditioner is failing.
- Is your system properly sized? If your unit is too small for your home, it can’t function properly. Just the same, if you’ve not long ago 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 positive if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to think about a replacement, Air Temperature Control can help! Our professionals can help you establish how much life remains in your system and what the ideal option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 478-202-3170 to setup an appointment for us to check it out.