AC Repair or Replace? The Right Way to Decide

If your AC is having a serious problem, then it can be difficult for you to decide whether you should repair or replace it. The best thing that you can do is to call an HVAC technician. They can diagnose the problem and make a recommendation. However, there are several things that you should consider before you decide whether repair or replacement is the best option.

The Age of Your AC

The age of your air conditioner is one of the first things that you should consider. If your air conditioner is only a year or two old, then repairing it may be worth it. However, you probably don’t want to repair an air conditioner that is over 10 years old because it is not worth the money.

According to Bentonville AC repair, Old air conditioners are less efficient. That is why you will probably save a lot of money in the long run by getting a new one. It is also important to note that the average lifespan of an air conditioner is 10 to 12 years. There is no need for you to repair an air conditioner that you will likely have to replace within a year or two.

The Extent of the Repair

You will need to consider the type of repair that needs to be done. A clogged drain line is an example of a simple repair that can be made. Simple repairs are worth making because they probably won’t cost you a lot of money. You can also extend the life of your air conditioner by getting the repairs done.

You will also need to think about the cost of the repair. If the cost of the repair is over half of what the AC is worth, then you may want to get a new one. For example, your air conditioner is worth $5,000. You do not want to pay more than $2,500 to get it repaired.

Furthermore, you will need to consider the frequency of the repairs. It is normal for an air conditioner to break down from time to time. However, if you have to get your air conditioner repaired several times a year, then it is time for you to get a new one.

The Efficiency of Your Air Conditioner

Your air conditioner naturally becomes less efficient over time. However, some signs indicate that your AC is losing its efficiency prematurely. For example, you may notice a steady increase in your energy bills. You may also notice that your home doesn’t cool properly.

If you want to save on energy, then it is a good idea to repair your air conditioner instead of replacing it.

The Maintenance of Your Current Air Conditioner

Proper maintenance is one of the keys to keeping your air conditioner in good shape. You can take care of basic maintenance yourself. For example, you will need to change the air filter every one to three months. You will also need to make sure that the debris around your outdoor unit is trimmed.

Furthermore, your air conditioner will need professional maintenance at least once a year. If your air conditioner has received the proper maintenance, then it will last a lot longer. That is why if your air conditioner has received maintenance, then you can probably get the necessary repairs. However, if you have neglected maintenance, then you may need to get a new AC.

Is the Current HVAC System Matched?

The current air conditioner that you have may not be right for your home. It may be over-sized or under-sized. An over-sized air conditioner will waste energy unnecessarily and cause you to spend more money on electricity. An under-sized one will not meet the cooling demands of your home. If an HVAC technician tells you that the unit is not the right size, then it is time to replace it.

Does Your Air Conditioner Still Use Freon?

Freon is gradually being phased out. There have been concerns raised about the safety of Freon. That is why if your current air conditioner runs on Freon, then it is best for you to get a new one now. A new air conditioner will be better for your wallet and the environment.