AC Repair Or Replace: How Do You Know?

Are you experiencing uneven temperatures in your home? Is stale air being blown from air vents? Has your air conditioner stopped working completely?

When air conditioning problems persist, you may find yourself considering a replacement. Not so fast! While sometimes a replacement is absolutely necessary, other times repairing your air conditioner is enough to keep it running for many more years.

How do you know whether to repair or replace your air conditioning system?

When It’s Time To Repair Your AC System

When dealing with air conditioning system that is 5 years old or less – even one that’s no longer under warranty – repairs almost always make more sense.

Basic maintenance is almost always enough to help you squeeze a few more miles out of your AC system. Your HVAC contractor will be the best judge of whether or not this is possible.

If you plan on moving out of your home in the near future and are experiencing air conditioning problems, repairs are the affordable bet, unless you’re looking to increase the value of your home with a new energy-efficient system.

When It’s Time To Replace Your AC System

Old Age: Air conditioning systems lose efficiency as they age. After about 10 years, the efficiency of your air conditioner will drop, which ultimately leads to an increase in energy consumption and costs.

Frequent Breakdowns: Several breakdowns within a few years could point to the need for a new system, especially if these breakdowns continually occur during peak use.

Uneven Temperatures: While this may not necessarily point to a new system, a system’s inability to provide consistent, accurate airflow in your rooms calls for a major upgrade.

Excessive Noise: When a system works extra hard to keep your home cool, it may result in excessive noise. Throughout the course of the noise, the system might also shut off randomly, signifying a bigger problem with the unit.

AC Repair Vs. Replace: The Benefits Of Replacing Your System

1. Cost Savings: Today’s newer models of air conditioning systems are highly efficient. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) on your system shows you exactly how much you can expect to save (often as high as 30% to 40% on cooling costs).
2. Air Quality: Today’s newer air conditioning systems fare better than old models in controlling airflow and reducing mold growth.
3. Convenience: The purchase of a new system includes parts and labor warranty packages, which will help you save on repairs for upward of 12 years after the date of purchase.
4. Home Comfort: New systems are specifically designed to give you greater control over maintaining temperatures in your home without eating energy and increasing electric bills. This results in a more efficient, cost-effective system, and greater home comfort than ever before.

Download our tip sheet and learn when you should attempt AC repair on your own, and when it’s time to contact your local HVAC company.

Author Bio:

Ronald Via

Ronald is one of the key contributors to BVS Home Experts, a family-owned and operated full-service air conditioning and heating company serving the Katy and West Houston areas. With a deep understanding of air conditioning and heating concerns, Ronald brings a wealth of knowledge to our readers.