How many times have you been in the middle of a summer heatwave and your air conditioning unit breaks? It’s miserable timing, but it happens all the time.
That’s because when AC units break, they tend to break at inconvenient times. If you’re starting to experience issues with your AC unit, it’s time to act.
If you’re unsure of whether to repair or replace your AC unit, there are a few telltale signs to look for. To help you figure this out, here is our guide to determining what to do next.
How Old is Your AC Unit?
One of the most important factors in deciding whether to repair or replace is your AC unit is age. If your unit is 10 years or younger, you should try and repair it. If your unit is older than 10 years, consider an AC replacement.
Younger AC units may still be on a warranty and the repair costs could be covered. You can check with the AC system’s manufacturer to figure this out.
Figure Out the Repair Costs
If it’s not expensive to repair your AC unit, then repair it. If the costs are going to run you dry, consider investing in a replacement.
A new AC system will cost you several thousand dollars. Though this seems like a lot, repairs can quickly add up if your AC unit is old.
By inspecting your air conditioner unit a couple of times a year, you can catch problems early and avoid costly repairs down the road.
How Many Times Have You Repaired it Before?
If you’re spending money on AC repairs often, it’s probably time to replace it. But, if your HVAC system runs reliably in the summer and rarely has issues, repairing it is an appropriate choice.
Pay attention to grinding noises and rattling noises which can be early indicators of future problems. A hissing noise could mean you have a refrigerant leak and you’ll need to call an HVAC technician to replace it.
Are Your Energy Bills Rising?
Your energy bills are one indicator of the efficiency of your AC unit. Depending on your region, heating and cooling can represent about 70% of your energy bill.
If your AC unit provides appropriate airflow and balanced temperatures throughout your home, repair it.
If you’re seeing unexpected spikes in your energy bills and you notice that the airflow is becoming weaker, consider a replacement. Clogged or broken vents and constantly blowing out air can all cause energy spikes that waste energy.
If you’re having problems with your AC unit, contact an HVAC specialist to learn additional information.
Now You Know if You Should Repair or Replace Your AC Unit
These are all the most important questions to determine whether you should repair or replace your AC unit. Generally, if your AC unit is less than 10-years old and doesn’t give you any issues, consider repairing it.
If you’ve had the AC unit for longer than 10 years and the repair costs are high, consider a replacement. The bottom line is that you want an air conditioning unit that functions efficiently without costing you more money.
Nobody regrets owning a high-functioning AC unit!
And if you found this article helpful, you’ll love the rest of our blog. We cover a wide range of topics that you’re sure to find equally helpful!
