How To Know When To Replace Your Air Conditioning System
To repair or retire your air conditioner? It's a conundrum you may face when your air conditioning system breaks down, leaving your house feeling hot and clammy. The only thing you can be sure of is that every air conditioner has to be replaced at some point. It's not a matter of if, but when.
There are many things that can indicate it's time to do away with your current air conditioner and get it replaced with a new one. Here are some of them.
1. If Your Air Conditioner Is Nearly Two Decades Old
On average, a properly maintained air conditioner should last between 15 to 20 years, meaning that any air conditioning installation that has lasted this long is nearing its retirement. If your air conditioner is 15 years or older, it's best to get it replaced rather than repaired.
2. If Your Air Conditioner Is Broken Down Beyond Repair
Even with proper maintenance, not all air conditioning installations last two decades. A combination of factors including refrigerant leaks, frozen evaporator coils, faulty blower fans, a bad thermostat, and more can cause the cost of AC system repair to add up quickly, making system replacement the more economical choice.
3. If Your Air Conditioner Is Inefficient
Air conditioners run on electricity and are one of the biggest consumers of electricity at home. That said, the opportunity to upgrade to a high-efficiency system can justify the decision to replace rather than repair your broken-down, less efficient air conditioner.
The high cost of upgrading to a more efficient system can pay for itself through the long-term energy savings generated.
4. If You Have Outgrown Your Air Conditioner
As you extend or renovate your home to suit your changing family situation, your home's cooling demand may increase. If your existing air conditioner is too small, it'll struggle to provide the cooling performance you want and may start to break down too frequently. As such, a replacement air conditioner can offer a chance to upsize your cooling system to match your home's increased cooling load.
The decision to replace rather than repair your air conditioning system can have huge implications for your finances over both the short-term and long-term. That's why you should think about it carefully, and not too hastily. If you need an expert's opinion on the matter, don't hesitate to get in touch with an HVAC contractor near you. They can provide further information regarding air conditioning replacement.
