When your air conditioner begins to underperform due to age and wear, you are faced with a big decision. Do you tough it out and continue putting up with your system’s constant failures or do you invest in brand-new, more efficient AC?
In some cases, you may be able to get your system running good as new with professional AC maintenance or a minor AC repair. In such a case, replacing your system would not be the most cost-effective choice. If you’re on the fence about whether to repair or replace your home AC, here’s a guide to help you make the right decision.
From unit to unit, it depends on how long your AC unit will last in Florida. For a window unit, you can expect about 10 years of life. If you have a central AC unit, you can expect it to last for about 15-20 years.
Please keep in mind that these estimates all depend on how often you use it, how well you take care of it, and how often you schedule maintenance with an HVAC technician. Because most Florida residents keep their AC running around the clock, the most important factor is prioritizing its upkeep.
6 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner
1. Your AC breaks down frequently, even when serviced by a professional
If you constantly have an HVAC technician over, it may be time to get another unit. When an AC unit starts to give out, it will rarely make a full recovery.
Even if the issues are minor, the cost of repeated breakdowns can add up to something significant. Plus, coming home from work each day wondering whether or not your AC will be working is not an ideal situation for anyone. At this point, replacing your unit will not only save you money but also time.
2. The cost of a single breakdown is half or more of what it would cost to replace your AC altogether
You may think that replacing your AC unit can be expensive, but you may just be spending more money by repairing it as well. You will want to use the 50 percent rule to determine the most cost-effective approach. If repairing a breakdown is going to cost 50 percent or more of what it would cost to simply say goodbye to your old system and hello to something shiny, new, and more energy efficient, then it’s time to replace your AC.
3. Your AC is more than seven years old
You may want to replace your air conditioner if it’s more than seven years old. This could be because a major repair will cost you a lot or your system breaks down all the time. The AC industry is ever-evolving, meaning systems designed today are more energy-efficient and high performing than those designed just a few years ago. So, by opting to replace an aging system, you’ll not only restore your home’s comfort level but also greatly improve it.
4. It’s Better for The Environment
Replacing your AC unit can be better for the environment. It will have a positive impact because your unit may not have to work as hard to get the same output. Additionally, newer units may be more environmentally friendly.
5. If You’re Uncomfortable at Home
If you are uncomfortable at home you may want to consider replacing your AC unit. This could be because a room may be too hot and you can not stand being in there. This is a common issue people run into and can be fixed with a new AC unit.
6. It’s Too Humid
Another common reason you may need to replace your AC unit is that it’s too humid in your house. This could mean your AC unit may need to be replaced. If your home is constantly humid, you may want to invest in a new air conditioning unit.
Improve Your Home’s Comfort Today
Whether you’ve decided to repair your air conditioner, replace it with a new one, or you’re still undecided, Complete Air Mechanical is here to help. Our experienced technicians will be happy to provide an honest recommendation on the most sensible, cost-effective decision regarding your system.
Call us today at (407) 915-0144 or schedule an appointment online.