Is your air conditioner acting up? Are you wondering if it’s worth repairing your AC or if you should replace it altogether? Here are a few things to consider.
- The unit’s energy efficiency
The first thing you should do is consider the energy efficiency of your current unit. An inefficient unit must work overtime to keep your home cool, which can increase your energy bills. Continuing to use your overworked unit could end up costing you more throughout the rest of its lifespan than it would to replace it.
AC units are given a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) to measure their energy efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit. For example, if your current unit has a SEER rating of 9 or 10, upgrading to one with a rating of 16 or 17 could save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills, offsetting the purchase price.
- The age of the system
Like any household appliance, air conditioners have a limited lifespan. If yours is nudging 15 years old, it may be time to replace it. As AC units age, they operate less efficiently and may struggle to meet your home’s cooling needs.
Additionally, as your AC unit ages, you could end up spending a lot of money repairing major components. This is especially true if it still uses the ozone-depleting R-22 refrigerant. Plus, finding replacement parts for an outdated unit can be challenging. Ultimately, replacing the entire system could save you money in the long run and provide peace of mind.
- The unit’s extra features
Air conditioners have come a long way in recent years. Nowadays, you can buy units with a range of features to improve your home comfort, such as humidity control, zoning technology and smart thermostats. If your current unit lacks these features, you may want to consider investing in a new one to enhance the quality and comfort of your indoor air.
Use The 5,000 Rule
When considering whether to repair or replace your AC unit, many HVAC contractors use the “5,000 rule.” All you have to do is multiply the unit’s age by the cost of repairs. If the total exceeds 5,000, it’s in your best interest to replace it.
However, if your AC unit is only a few years old and only needs a minor fix, the Fair Service Heating and Air Conditioning Ltd. team can help.
Central Air Conditioner Repair and Replacement Services
Whether your AC unit needs a minor repair or you’re ready to upgrade to a new, more energy-efficient system, look no further than Fair Service Heating and Air Conditioning Ltd. We pride ourselves on having an extensive dealer network and can get you the parts and cooling equipment you need in a flash. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.
