When your air conditioner in Temple/Belton breaks down, it can be tricky to know if it’s a sign for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a greater option for the long run. The answer isn’t similar for every homeowner. E.g., a system that has been serviced regularly could be a smarter candidate for an AC repair because it will generally have a longer lifetime than another system that hasn’t been maintained. Many other factors should be considered on top of to this. We’ve got some questions that can help guide you.
How old is your system and how often are you repairing it?
The age of your air conditioner is a big factor in your decision to call for an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Aged systems usually don’t operate as well as they did when they were new—and particularly not as well as a new, energy-efficient model. Actually, you could decrease your energy consumption by more than you thought possible if you exchange your older 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 advises upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your current central air conditioner is more than 10 years old.
Beyond your unit’s age, look at your AC repair history. If your system has broken down several times, it’s probable to fail again—this circumstance 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 economical in the end?
Many technicians suggest 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, just get the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house cool enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t running well.
- Are your energy bills increasing without enhanced usage? This is a indication that your air conditioner is breaking down.
- Is your system properly sized? If your equipment is too small for your home, it can’t do its job. Just the same, if you’ve recently taken measures to make your home more energy efficient, your system can essentially be bigger 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 think about a replacement, Bell Air Conditioning Inc can help! Our specialists can help you decide how much life remains in your system and what the ideal option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 254-307-9572 to setup an appointment for us to come out.