When outdoor temperatures rise, we all rely on our AC to keep us cool and comfortable. So, if your AC starts experiencing problems in the middle of summer, how can you tell if a repair or a full replacement is the solution?
Here are a few factors to consider while making this decision.
Age of AC unit
As time goes on, air conditioning units can become less efficient at cooling homes, can cause higher energy bills, and are more likely to need repairs. For this reason, most AC companies recommend replacing your AC unit every 10-15 years. Due to advances in technology, AC units nowadays are more reliable, more energy-efficient, and cost less money to run.
Technological improvements also mean that older AC units and their parts are consequently being phased out of the market. Therefore, if your decade-old or older AC is giving you trouble and you want to avoid the possibility of frequent repairs, high-energy costs and discontinued parts, an upgraded AC unit is the way to go.
AC repair costs
Depending on the age of your AC, it also may not be worth the cost of repair. The $5,000 test is a simple way to tell if a new AC is a beneficial investment. To use this test, you multiply the age of your unit by the repair cost. If the solution exceeds $5,000, then you should replace the unit. If the number is less, you should go ahead and repair it.
Why is a new AC is a good investment?
Repairing an old AC unit will always only be a short-term solution. Your AC is no different than a car – once it starts to break down after a certain age, it’s typically best to go with something new. Finding alternatives to AC replacement won’t guarantee a long-lasting, reliable cooling system for your home. If you have an older AC unit, a one-time payment on an installation is more cost-effective than paying for frequent AC repair costs and skyrocketing energy bills.
Having a new AC unit installed can also increase the resale value of your home. Even if you are thinking about moving in the next couple of years, a replacement AC will still be a worthwhile investment.
What’s Next?
During the hot, summer months, having a dependable AC unit is paramount. If you need AC repair or AC replacement, contact My Guy Heating and Air Conditioning today to speak with one of our trusted HVAC technicians.