Summer isn’t over yet! We still have some warm days ahead here in Buffalo, so your air conditioner will remain hard at work for the next few weeks. But, if you’ve been having some problems with your AC unit, it may need some repairs before the season is over. However, if you’ve been sinking money into repairs a lot recently, then maybe it’s time to replace it altogether.
When your cooling system breaks down, you’re faced with a hard decision – should you repair or replace it? Before making the decision, there are some factors to consider – here are a few tips to determine if you should repair or replace your air conditioner.
How old is it?
One of the most common factors when considering repair or replacement is the age of the system. Older units are less efficient and come with higher repair costs. If your HVAC system is less than eight years old, depending on the extent and cost of the required repair, that may be a favorable choice. But if your system is more than eight years old, replacing the system is likely more beneficial. Changes in technology, energy efficiency, and ecological considerations make today’s systems more environmentally friendly, more cost-effective to run, and more convenient with more sophisticated set-back features and WiFi technology.
How efficient is it?
With rising energy costs, you want an efficient cooling system to help you conserve energy and save money. If your HVAC system has a SEER rating greater than 13, it is still efficient and may be worth trying to repair. Systems with a SEER rating of less than 13 should be replaced with a higher-rated unit to reduce cooling energy costs. Manufacturers have made great strides in energy efficiency technologies and the government is stepping in to impose minimums moving forward in their efforts to impact saving the environment.
Is it the right size for your home?
Systems that aren’t sized correctly to fit your home are prone to premature failure. If your system is not the right size for your home, replacing the unit with one that better suits your home’s cooling needs is worth the investment. A correctly-sized unit will prolong the life of your system and save you money on cooling costs.
What problem needs to be fixed?
If your air conditioner needs a minor repair, like unclogging a drain line or replacing the capacitor, it’s worth repairing it. If the blower motor, compressor, or condenser fails, replacing the whole system could be more beneficial.
How often do you need repairs?
Some systems only have a five-year warranty, but if your air conditioner has had less than two minor repairs in the last ten years, repairing is the way to go. If your system has had any significant repairs recently and isn’t working correctly, consider replacing it.
The decision to repair or replace your air conditioner is not easy, but the professionals at Roy’s Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling are here to help you make the best decision for your home. Schedule your estimate online, or just call Roy’s at 716-218-1106