When your air conditioner in Tucson breaks down, it can be tricky to know if it’s a sign for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a better option for the future. The answer isn’t identical for every homeowner. For instance, a system that has been serviced regularly could be a better candidate for an AC repair because it will probably have a longer lifetime than another system that hasn’t been upheld. Many other factors should be thought about in addition to this. We’ve got some questions that can help guide you.
How old is your system and how often are you repairing it?
The age of your air conditioner is a big factor in your decision to arrange an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Aged systems usually don’t function as well as they did when they were new—and particularly not as effectively as a new, energy-efficient model. In reality, you could lower your energy consumption by more than you may think if you replace your outdated system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Most often, this savings will justify investment in a replacement system.
So how old is “too old”? That can differ based on your exact equipment and how well it’s been maintained, 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, look at your AC repair history. If your system has broken down several times, it’s prone to fail again—this scenario can end up costing you more money in the future. When you think about possible rebates and improved efficiency, is a new system going to be more economical in the future?
Many technicians suggest following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your system by the cost of the AC repair. If it’s more than $5,000, replace the system. If it’s less, try the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house cool enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t running well.
- Are your energy bills increasing without increased usage? This is a symptom that your air conditioner is on the fritz.
- Is your system properly sized? If your equipment is too small for your home, it can’t run efficiently. Likewise, if you’ve just worked to make your home more energy efficient, your system can in fact be bigger than you need to cool a very efficient home.
If you’re unclear about if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to think about a replacement, A&M Heating & Cooling LLC can help! Our professionals can help you establish how much life is left in your system and what the best option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 520-200-1048 to setup an appointment for us to come out.