Many homeowners stress over whether to repair or replace their air conditioner. After all, it is one of the most expensive appliances in your home. No one wants to spend thousands of unnecessary dollars. But, on the other hand, what happens if you pay for a pricey repair only to have your unit break again?
At Air Experts, we are all about bringing you comfort and savings. Here are just a few things to consider when deciding if repairing or replacing your AC unit is the right decision.
When to Repair Your Air Conditioner
Your air conditioner is tougher than you think. Many times all it takes is a few repairs to get it performing its best. When trying to decide if it’s worth it to repair, keep these factors in mind:
- The 50 percent rule. The general rule of thumb is, if the cost of repair is less than half of the air conditioners value, you should repair. If the cost is greater than half the price, it might be time to consider other options.
- Newer systems. If you have gotten your system within the last five years, you should almost definitely repair. Often times it is just simple electrical issues with newer systems and your technician can fix it, no problem. Also, newer systems are more likely to be under warranty, so it might not ending up costing you.
- Moving. If you are moving in the near future, it is probably not worth it to go through an expensive replacement. A simple fix might offer a short-term solution while selling your home. However, it may be worth investigating if a new air conditioner could raise your home’s value.
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When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Letting go can be hard. However, sometimes the best thing we can do is move on. If any of these characteristics describe your air conditioner, you’ll want to seriously consider replacing:
- More than 10 years old. Most units will start going downhill rapidly after 10 years. If you have an older air conditioner, it might be time to replace.
- Uses R-22. Freon 22 has been banned by the EPA. This means not only is it harmful to the environment, it is expensive to replace. Soon you will have to switch over anyway, so you will want to consider replacing your air conditioner if it uses R-22
- SEER rating of 12 or lower. The EPA has also banned air conditioners with Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio rating of 12 or lower. Switching to a higher rated system is not only better for the environment, it can save you money on your electric bill.
- Frequent repairs. If it seems that your air conditioner needs expensive repairs at least once a year, it might be time to move on. These costs can add up over time and you’ll end up spending more on repairs than a new unit would have cost.
Contact Air Experts for AC Repair and Installation
Remember, the best way to avoid repairing or replacing your air conditioner is by having regular annual maintenance. AC check-ups can prevent many of the common issues causing your air conditioner to break down in the first place. To schedule your annual maintenance, call Air Experts today. Our experienced technicians have the skills and tools to keep your AC running smooth and your home cool.