When your air conditioner in Los Angeles breaks down, it can be tricky to know if it’s time for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a greater option for the long term. The answer isn’t similar for every homeowner. For instance, a system that has been well maintained could be a realistic candidate for an AC repair because it will almost certainly have a longer lifetime than another system that hasn’t been serviced. Many other influences should be considered additionally to this. We’ve got some questions that can help lead 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 verdict to order an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t operate as efficiently as they did when they were new—and particularly not as well as a new, energy-efficient model. Actually, you could reduce your energy consumption by more than you may think if you replace your aged system with a new, energy-efficient unit. In many circumstances, this savings will rationalize investment in a replacement system.
So how old is “too old”? That can vary based on your particular equipment and how well it’s been maintained, but Energy Star proposes upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your existing central air conditioner is more than 10 years old.
Past your unit’s age, check out your AC repair history. If your system has stopped working a couple of times, it’s prone to fail again—this scenario can end up costing you more money in the long run. When you consider possible rebates and improved efficiency, is a new system going to be more economical in the future?
Many technicians advise 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, change the system. If it’s less, try the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house cool enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t working properly.
- Are your energy bills spiking without extra usage? This is a indication that your air conditioner is on the fritz.
- Is your system properly sized? If your system is too small for your home, it can’t run efficiently. Likewise, if you’ve just did something to make your home more energy efficient, your system can actually be greater than you need to cool a very efficient home.
If you’re not sure if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to consider a replacement, AZ Air Conditioning and Heating can help! Our experts can help you determine how much life remains in your system and what the best option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 800-296-5088 to setup an appointment for us to visit you.