Should I Repair or Replace My Home’s Air Conditioner?

If your AC unit just isn’t running like it used to, you may be considering having it replaced. Sometimes, a pricey repair might not be worth it when a slightly bigger investment could get you brand new equipment.

Newer air conditioners are designed to run more efficiently than older models, cutting down on energy use and saving you money. Some also come with sophisticated technology that gives you greater control of your home’s climate.

However, it could still be hard to gauge whether having a new air conditioner installed will be more cost efficient than dealing with the one you have. If you’re trying to decide between repairing or replacing your AC, consider these factors:

Is Your AC Older Than 10 Years Old?

The average lifespan of an AC unit falls somewhere between 10 and 15 years and a well-maintained unit that has been regularly tuned and cleaned will last longer than one that has been neglected. However, even quality maintenance can’t match new technology.

Are You Moving Any Time Soon?

If you plan on staying at your current residence for at least a few years, a new AC unit will be worth the investment. However, if you’re planning to move in the near future and you can get by with making only minor repairs to your system, having a new unit installed might not be worth it. However, a brand new, energy efficient air conditioner could help to increase the value of your home when you’re ready to sell.

Does Your Equipment Need Frequent Repairs?

If it seems your system just can’t handle the workload it takes to keep your home comfortable, and it has broken down several times over the last few years, it is probably time to replace it.

A small repair that runs you a few hundred dollars is usually not that big of a deal. But if your unit needs small repairs over and over again, the bills will start to add up. And generally, once your older AC unit starts having issues, things are only going to get worse.

The 50 Percent Rule

If a more expensive repair is required, consider the price of the repair compared to the price of a new AC unit. If the repair is less than half of what a new unit would cost, it would be reasonable to repair instead of replace. However, if your air conditioner is getting up there in age, or if this is not the first major repair it has needed, it still might be a better decision to replace it. The money you’ll save on energy and maintenance costs will end up being worth it.

Consult the Trusted Professionals

At Sea Coast Air Conditioning, we consider it our duty to provide you with honest advice on what course of action is best for you and your family. While we would be happy install new, high-quality equipment in your home, we also understand when a repair job makes more sense for you budget. Give us a call today to discuss the right option for you!