When your air conditioner in West Columbia breaks down, it can be tricky to know if it’s a sign for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a better option for the long term. The answer isn’t identical for every homeowner. E.g., a system that has been well maintained could be a realistic candidate for an AC repair because it will probably have a longer existence than another system that hasn’t been maintained. Many other influences should be considered in addition to this. We’ve got some questions that can help direct you.
How old is your system and how often are you repairing it?
The age of your air conditioner is a huge factor in your verdict 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 definitely not as well as a new, energy-efficient model. In fact, you could lower your energy consumption by more than you may know if you swap out your older system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Usually, this savings will justify investment in a replacement system.
So how old is “too old”? That can change based on your particular equipment and how well it’s been maintained, but Energy Star recommends upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your present-day central air conditioner is more than 10 years old.
Beyond your unit’s age, examine your AC repair history. If your system has failed several times, it’s likely to stop working again—this circumstance can end up costing you more money in the future. When you think about possible rebates and enhanced efficiency, is a new system going to be more cost-effective in the future?
Many professionals suggest 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, exchange the system. If it’s less, try 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 increasing without enhanced usage? This is a indication that your air conditioner is failing.
- Is your system properly sized? If your system is too small for your home, it can’t run efficiently. Just the same, if you’ve recently worked to make your home more energy efficient, your system can in fact be bigger than you need to cool a very efficient home.
If you’re unclear about if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to get a replacement, Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. can help! Our professionals can help you decide how much life lingers in your system and what the ideal option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 803-265-4208 to setup an appointment for us to come out.