When your air conditioner in Florissant stops working, it can be tricky to know if it’s an occasion for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a better option for the future. The answer isn’t similar for every homeowner. For example, a system that has been taken care of could be a better candidate for an AC repair because it will probably have a longer existence than another system that hasn’t been serviced. Many other factors should be taken into account in addition 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 arrange an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Aged systems usually don’t function as well as they did when they were new—and particularly not as effectively as a new, energy-efficient model. In fact, you could reduce your energy consumption by more than you thought possible if you exchange your aged system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Usually, this savings will support investment in a replacement system.
So how old is “too old”? That can vary based on your specific equipment and how well it’s been taken care of, but Energy Star proposes upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your present-day central air conditioner is more than 10 years old.
Past your unit’s age, look at your AC repair history. If your system has failed a couple of times, it’s prone to stop working again—this scenario can end up costing you more money in the long term. When you think about likely rebates and increased efficiency, is a new system going to be more lucrative in the future?
Many professionals recommend following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your unit by the cost of the AC repair. If it’s more than $5,000, replace the system. If it’s less, try the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house comfortable enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t keeping up.
- Are your energy bills spiking without enhanced usage? This is a indication that your air conditioner is failing.
- Is your system properly sized? If your equipment is too small for your home, it can’t run efficiently. Just the same, if you’ve recently worked to make your home more energy efficient, your system can essentially be greater than you need to cool a very efficient home.
If you’re unclear about if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to think about a replacement, B & B Heating & Cooling can help! Our professionals can help you determine how much life lingers in your system and what the best option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 314-325-7552 to setup an appointment for us to visit you.