Surviving these climbing summer temperatures requires a well-working AC, and a broken system can present quite a problem. If you find yourself in this situation, determining the best resolution for your air conditioning problems can be tricky: will repairs be sufficient, or is a new unit the better route?
This guide covers AC unit replacement costs and energy efficiency to help you make an informed decision. For further questions, don’t hesitate to consult with your local HVAC company.
First, Assess the Age of Your Unit
Air conditioning units typically last for around 10–15 years, depending on amount of use and model. If your AC is within this range, you may be looking at a replacement rather than a repair. Before making your decision, be alert for signs that your unit is reaching the end of its life.
Common red flags include:
- Frequent breakdowns
- Reduced efficiency
- Spikes in utility bills
- Warm or weak airflow
- Loud noises
Additionally, most manufacturer warranties expire after 10 years. If your unit is past warranty, a replacement is a good option so you can have the benefits of both a new unit and a new manufacturer’s warranty.
Evaluate Repair Costs
Another key factor in your decision between replacement or repairing is the difference between the AC unit replacement cost and repair costs. While repairs can be a cheaper option in the moment, frequent repairs can add up to be more expensive than the cost of a new unit over time.
If you have an older unit, spending more than 25% of the AC unit replacement cost on repairs is not recommended. Note that this is the very highest end of what you should be willing to pay—if the repairs get anywhere close to this amount, a new unit will probably be more worth your while because an aging, damaged system will keep requiring more and more repairs.
The cost of repairs also depends on how extensive they are. When major components (like the compressor or evaporator coil) of your unit give out, fixing them can be a complicated, costly process. If you’re facing issues like these, replacement may be your best option.
Consider Energy Efficiency
Your energy bills can also be helpful tools in your debate of replace or repair. Old or inefficient AC units have to work harder to cool down your home or business, which can cause a significant increase in your energy bill. A unit that runs like this may not be worth the time, money, and effort spent rehabilitating it.
You can determine your unit’s efficiency and how well it cools your home using the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). The SEER is often found on a sticker or tag on the unit, and the higher the ratio, the better.
Investing in a cooling system with a higher SEER can save you money because your AC won’t have to work as hard to cool your home. You may also be eligible for rebates when you install energy-efficient appliances, which makes the AC unit replacement cost even more worthwhile.
Poor efficiency can also be caused by leaky ductwork, in which case the SEER of your unit won’t play as big of a role since the cold air will escape before reaching different parts of your home. Before choosing a unit simply because it has a higher SEER, have your HVAC company check your ductwork and consult with them about what will work best in your home.
Gauge Performance and Comfort
In addition to the technical evaluations, it’s important to consider how your AC unit is making your home feel and affecting your daily activities. Take a minute to think about how your unit performs in each of the following areas:
- Cooling Effectiveness
- Humidity Control
- Comfort Consistency
If your system received poor grades for all or some of the above, a different kind of unit may better fit your needs, but it’s possible that repairs could be enough to resolve the current issues. Discuss your concerns with your local HVAC company for more insights.
Get a Professional Assessment
In the end, the best way to understand your AC unit is to have it looked at by the people who know it best. Hiring an HVAC professional to check out your system will help you accurately diagnose issues and make an informed decision between paying the AC unit replacement cost or opting for repairs.
Let Bell Cow Help with Your AC
Here at Bell Cow Service Company, we want you to stay cool and comfortable this summer. Whether you’re in the market for HVAC installation, repairs, maintenance, or replacement, we’ve got your back.
If you’re unsure what the best AC solution is, let us do an inspection before you commit to the AC unit replacement cost—an honest assessment and recommendation is our promise. Our friendly techs are the best around, and they’re only one call away when you’re ready to replace or repair your AC. Get in touch soon to make a plan for your air conditioning system.