When your air conditioner in Front Royal 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 run. The answer isn’t the same for every homeowner. For example, a system that has been well maintained could be a better candidate for an AC repair because it will almost certainly have a longer lifetime than another system that hasn’t been maintained. Many other factors should be considered additionally 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 large factor in your decision to arrange an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t function as well as they did when they were new—and definitely not as well as a new, energy-efficient model. In reality, you could lower your energy consumption by more than you may know if you exchange your aged 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 taken care of, but Energy Star proposes upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your existing central air conditioner is more than 10 years old.
Outside your unit’s age, examine your AC repair history. If your system has failed a few times, it’s prone to fail again—this situation can end up costing you more money in the long run. When you consider possible rebates and improved efficiency, is a new system going to be more cost-effective over time?
Many technicians advise following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your equipment 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 cool enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t working properly.
- Are your energy bills increasing without extra usage? This is a indication that your air conditioner is breaking down.
- Is your system properly sized? If your unit is too small for your home, it can’t function properly. Likewise, if you’ve not long ago taken measures to make your home more energy efficient, your system can in fact be greater 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 consider a replacement, Dave's Diversified Services can help! Our experts can help you decide how much life lingers in your system and what the top option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 540-636-3396 to setup an appointment for us to come out.