When your air conditioner in Cottonwood & Prescott fails, it can be tricky to know if it’s an occasion for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a better option for the long term. The answer isn’t the same 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 lifespan than another system that hasn’t been upheld. Many other factors should be considered on top of 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 huge factor in your decision to call for an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t run as effectively as they did when they were new—and especially not as efficiently as a new, energy-efficient model. In reality, you could lower your energy consumption by more than you may think if you swap out your older system with a new, energy-efficient unit. In many circumstances, this savings will support investment in a replacement system.
So how old is “too old”? That can vary based on your specific equipment and how well it’s been taken care of, but Energy Star advises upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your existing central air conditioner is greater than 10 years old.
Past your unit’s age, examine your AC repair history. If your system has broken down several times, it’s prone to stop working again—this circumstance can end up costing you more money in the long term. When you think about possible rebates and enhanced efficiency, is a new system going to be more lucrative over time?
Many professionals recommend 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, go for the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house cozy enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t running well.
- Are your energy bills going up without extra usage? This is a sign 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. Also, if you’ve recently 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 not positive if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to get a replacement, Connolly Electric & Mechanical can help! Our experts can help you determine how much life lingers in your system and what the ideal option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 928-251-4327 to setup an appointment for us to come out.