When your air conditioner in Muskogee fails, it can be hard to know if it’s time for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a greater option for the long run. The answer isn’t identical for every homeowner. E.g., a system that has been serviced regularly could be a better candidate for an AC repair because it will almost certainly have a longer lifespan than another system that hasn’t been upheld. Many other aspects should be considered additionally 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 choice to arrange an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Older systems usually don’t run as well as they did when they were new—and especially not as well as a new, energy-efficient model. In fact, you could reduce your energy consumption by more than you may know if you swap out 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 change based on your exact equipment and how well it’s been maintained, but Energy Star advises upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your present-day central air conditioner is greater than 10 years old.
Beyond your unit’s age, check out your AC repair history. If your system has stopped working 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 take into account possible rebates and improved efficiency, is a new system going to be more economical over time?
Many professionals recommend 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, 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 running well.
- Are your energy bills spiking 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 run efficiently. Just the same, if you’ve just did something 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 positive if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to consider a replacement, Hix Air Conditioning Service, Inc. can help! Our professionals can help you establish how much life remains in your system and what the top option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 918-682-8238 to setup an appointment for us to come out.