How to decide whether to replace or repair your AC

Your air conditioner can last for 10-15 years with proper care and maintenance. Some of the ways to extend the lifespan of your unit are regularly cleaning or replacing your air filters, and using a programmable thermostat to allow the unit to work less. However, your AC can still break when you least expect it, and when it happens often, you might wonder if it’s time to purchase a new unit. Here’s how to decide whether to replace or repair your AC:

# 1 You’ve had your AC for around 10-15 years

Typically, you’d get to enjoy your AC for 10-15 years, or even longer if it’s maintained properly. But if your unit is more than 10 years old and the warranty has expired, it’s better to purchase a new unit…especially if you’re experiencing problems with the unit more frequently and the repair quotes you get are high. 

On the other hand, if you have a fairly new AC that’s well maintained and hasn’t experienced a major breakdown, a repair should suffice. 

# 2 The repair costs are high

Many AC technicians recommend replacing your unit if the cost of repair multiplied by the age of the unit exceeds $5,000. (The average cost of an AC replacement is $5,000, although this can go up to $10,000 or more, depending on several factors.)

If you find yourself repeatedly paying for expensive system repairs, it’s more cost-effective to replace your unit.

# 3 Your energy bills are skyrocketing 

As your unit ages, it becomes less efficient, no matter how well you maintain it. Therefore, a modern system would be more energy-efficient than a 10-year old unit. 

You can take a look at your unit’s SEER rating, for reference. The higher the SEER, the more energy-efficient the unit is. So you’ll save about 13% on electric bills if you upgrade from a 14 SEER to a 16 SEER unit.

Modern systems have a SEER rating above 20, while the older units in 2015 were held to significantly lower standards.

Therefore, if you notice the costs of your energy bills are getting more expensive, it may be time to replace your AC. 

What’s next?

Purchasing a high-quality, energy-efficient AC is a serious investment. That’s why we recommend getting your unit repaired first before you consider replacing it. Unless, of course, your existing unit is breaking down and fixing it costs a significant amount.

And if you’re experiencing problems with your AC, it’s important to work only with a knowledgeable, skilled air conditioning repair contractor who has your best interests at heart. That’s where we come in– we provide the best air conditioning repair solutions tailored to your unique needs and preferences. We help you figure out whether it’s best to replace or repair your AC…and more! 

Good Guys Home Services has been providing air conditioning and heating services since 2017. Need to talk to an expert about AC repairs? Feel free to reach out to us! You may schedule an appointment using our exclusive Good Guys Home Services Mobile app or fill out our online form for faster service.