Repair or Replace Air Conditioner? | Telltale Signs and Symptoms

Repair or Replace Air Conditioner????

Whether to repair or replace an air conditioner can lead to a bunch of question marks. That is, unless it’s failed completely, then the decision should be an obvious yes. But having to make a decision under time constraints can lead to a lot of frustration, and you won’t always get the product you want at the right price.

“Should I repair or replace my air conditioner?” doesn’t exactly have a cut and dry answer. It might seem cheaper to simply make several repairs than to install a whole new system. If properly installed and maintained, your air conditioner should last anywhere from 12 to 15 years, so it’s possible that the issues you’re experiencing are isolated and can easily be repaired.

Looking into a replacement air conditioner before you absolutely have to will allow a lot of breathing room. You won’t feel the pressure to make a decision right away, and you can take your time researching systems that will best fit your budget and property.

You’ll be able to compare the benefits of different systems and you can even call on a licensed professional to help you make the best decision based on your specifications. After all, you can’t simply point and choose with air conditioners as it is critical to have them properly sized for your home.

However, it’s important to compare the costs. Frequent break downs, high utility costs, and uneven cooling are all telltale signs your air conditioner needs replacing.

A/C Efficiency

When purchasing a new air conditioning system, you’ll want to pay close attention to the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) number. This rates how efficient the unit is. Simply put, the higher the rating, the more efficient the system is. A unit that was purchased 10 years ago would have had a rating of around 8. However, that same unit might now have a SEER rating of around 5-6.

In 2006, the minimum SEER rating for an air conditioning system was changed to 13. So that same unit could now be 50% less efficient. Upgrading to a new more energy efficient model will drastically reduce your utility costs, essentially paying for the cost to replace your air conditioner. So don’t let the initial price scare you off.

A/C Repairs

To piggy back off our last point, if you’re having to call an A/C technician out on a frequent basis, put some serious consideration into having it replaced. We love our repeat customers, but even more than that, we want our customers to stay comfortable at all times – the most efficient and affordable way possible.

Have a technician help determine a replacement solution that best suits your budget and property. At Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning, we believe every customer deserves to have a cool and comfortable home, which is why we offer financing. Don’t let price get in the way of your happiness!

If your system is still relatively new, most often a repair makes more sense. However, if you’re having to call a technician out on a consistent basis for a system that is still somewhat new, it most likely means the installation was done improperly. In that case, have it inspected as soon as possible.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIIJ-aY_6B0

Excessive Noise from Your A/C Unit

If your system has to work extra hard to keep up with your cooling needs, you’ll likely need a replacement installed. This overexertion will produce an excessive loud noise, so pay close attention. If you start noticing this noise, have a professional come out.

This noise correlates with age and efficiency; if it’s older and less efficient, it will of course have to work really hard to keep up with your needs.

For more signs and symptoms of an air conditioning system that is on its way out, consult this EnergyStar guide.

Bonus test: You can also use the EnergyStar Home Energy Yardstick to determine how energy efficient your home is. If you score 5 or below, you are spending more than average on your energy use, which is another indicator that you should replace your HVAC system.

Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning is your go-to source for all air conditioning repair or replacement questions. If you’re still unsure what the right solution is, give us a call! We’ll be more than happy to answer all of your questions.

Visit us online or give us a call at 405-794-8900.

You can also keep in touch with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+!