To Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner … That is the Question?

When your home or business’ air conditioner stops operating properly, you have a choice to make …. either repair or replace it.

Indicators that Your AC Unit is Beyond Saving
So how do you know when you have reached that point that it makes more sense to stop repairing your AC unit and install a new more energy efficient model?  Often the decision comes down to determining if buying a new air conditioner is a better long term deal financially than continuing to spend money on repairs.

Here are a few indicators that may provide you with some insight on what may be the best course of action in your situation.

Frequent Air Conditioner Repairs
The need for frequent repairs to your AC system is an obvious sign that you may be due for a new unit, especially when those repairs are getting progressively more expensive.  Eventually the money spent on ongoing repairs will be better used toward the purchase of a new air conditioner.

Temperatures Throughout Your Home Vary
Inconsistent temperatures in different rooms of your home are another indicator that it may be time for AC replacement.  If rooms in your home or office don’t stay cool while others are cooler, your AC unit may be malfunctioning or there could be other causes such as poor insulation or leaks in your duct work.

Humidity Problems in Your Home
Poor AC equipment operation or improperly sized AC units, along with leaky ductwork, can cause the air to be too dry in the winter or too humid in the summer.  A new AC unit can address humidity problems and improve the overall comfort level of your home.

Your Air Conditioner’s Age
The most common reason that people replace their air conditioner is that it is old and has surpassed its useful life. Ongoing maintenance issues normally start when an AC unit is older than 10 years. Replacing an aging and worn out air conditioner can actually have a number of benefits including increased energy efficiency (resulting in lower electric bills), improved indoor air quality, and reduced carbon emissions. Not to mention eliminating those ongoing repair bills.

Energy Star Home Energy Yardstick
Energy Star has a simple program that helps you determine how well your overall HVAC system is working.

By completing the questions at Home Energy Yardstick you’ll get an energy use rating.  A rating below “5” may indicate it’s time for a new AC unit.

Get Advice from a Pro
Need some assistance in reviewing your options?  Give us a call at Mecko’s Heating & Cooling at 765-447-7555 or send us an EMAIL and we’ll do our best to answer your questions.