Replace Or Repair Your Air Conditioning Unit: What To Consider
An air conditioning unit will eventually breakdown during its lifetime, much like any other major appliance in your home. It's part of home-ownership to keep up maintenance on your appliances (including your air conditioner), and make necessary repairs when needed. The dilemma that most homeowners face is how to know when it's better to repair and when you should replace your older appliances. You could be making repairs only to turn around and make another repair, and then another; had you replaced the appliance, you could've saved yourself some money. With air conditioning units, there are a few things you can consider when facing this dilemma. See below for a list of these things.
Age Of Appliance
If your air conditioner is older than 10 years old, you may want to think about replacing your unit. An older unit may still use Freon, which is harder to get and can be costly if your unit needs to be recharged. Older units can also be more expensive to repair, as the parts may be harder to find. They are also less efficient, which could result in higher energy costs to you.
Type Of Repairs And Frequency
The type of repairs your unit needs is also something to consider. If you have inexpensive problems and issues, repairing the problem is more cost effective to you; however, if the problems are things like the blower motor or compressor, it may be in your best interest to replace the unit rather than repair it. Also, consider the amount of repairs you have had over the last few years. If you are calling the air conditioning repairman out every single summer season (or more than once in a single season), it may be time to replace your unit.
Efficiency Rating
Again, older units have a lower energy efficiency, meaning it could be costing you more money on your monthly energy bills. Investing in a new unit can not only save you money each month, but some energy companies will offer rebates if you install a newer, more energy efficient unit. It's a win-win.
Unit Size
The size of your unit also makes a difference. If your unit is too small, it may be working overtime to cool your home. Investing in a new unit that is the right size will help save you money. On the other side, if your unit is too large, you could be wasting money as well. Consider a new unit that is the proper size for your home.
Your air conditioning unit is a large appliance in your home and should be maintained in order to keep it working properly, but even with regular maintenance, your unit can still suffer a breakdown from time to time. Know when it's time to stop throwing money at it in repair costs and when it's time to replace it instead. Talk to a professional air conditioning services company about your unit.