When your air conditioner in Chelan and Wenatchee fails, it can be difficult to know if it’s time for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a better option for the long term. The answer isn’t the same for every homeowner. For example, a system that has been serviced regularly could be a realistic candidate for an AC repair because it will generally have a longer lifetime than another system that hasn’t been serviced. Many other aspects 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 large factor in your verdict to order an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t operate as well as they did when they were new—and definitely not as efficiently as a new, energy-efficient model. In reality, you could lower your energy consumption by more than you may think if you replace your aged system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Most often, 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 greater than 10 years old.
Beyond your unit’s age, look at your AC repair history. If your system has broken down a couple of times, it’s prone to break down again—this scenario can end up costing you more money in the future. When you think about likely rebates and increased efficiency, is a new system going to be more cost-effective in the future?
Many professionals advise following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your system by the cost of the AC repair. If it’s more than $5,000, replace the system. If it’s less, go for the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house comfortable enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t working properly.
- Are your energy bills spiking without increased usage? This is a indication that your air conditioner is on the fritz.
- Is your system properly sized? If your equipment is too small for your home, it can’t function properly. Likewise, if you’ve recently did something to make your home more energy efficient, your system can actually be bigger than you need to cool a very efficient home.
If you’re not positive if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to get a replacement, Lakeside Heating & Air can help! Our professionals can help you decide how much life is left in your system and what the ideal option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 509-284-4265 to setup an appointment for us to visit you.