When your air conditioner in Erie stops working, it can be tricky to know if it’s a sign for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a smarter option for the long run. The answer isn’t similar for every homeowner. For instance, a system that has been serviced regularly could be a realistic candidate for an AC repair because it will generally have a longer lifetime than another system that hasn’t been serviced. Many other factors should be considered 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 large factor in your verdict to call for an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t function as efficiently as they did when they were new—and definitely not as well as a new, energy-efficient model. Actually, you could decrease your energy consumption by more than you may think if you replace your older system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Usually, this savings will rationalize 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 maintained, but Energy Star recommends upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your present-day central air conditioner is older than 10 years old.
Past your unit’s age, look at your AC repair history. If your system has failed several times, it’s prone to break down again—this situation 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 economical in the future?
Many professionals recommend following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your equipment 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 cool enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t keeping up.
- Are your energy bills spiking without enhanced usage? This is a indication 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 function properly. Likewise, if you’ve just did something to make your home more energy efficient, your system can in fact be larger 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 get a replacement, Patterson & Stirling Inc can help! Our professionals can help you determine how much life is left in your system and what the top option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 814-308-0416 to setup an appointment for us to visit you.