Should You Replace Your Air Conditioner

An older AC can still work, as long as it has been properly maintained. However, older air conditioners are not able to compete with new models, which are more efficient. Eventually, there comes a point in time when it makes sense to buy a new AC.

Many experts agree that 10-15 years is the average lifespan of an AC. It doesn’t matter if you have a ductless AC or central AC, if it’s at least ten years old, then it’s time to consider upgrading it. Sure, if it has been properly maintained, then some AC units can last up to 20 years and still work pretty well. Before you decide to replace your AC, it’s a good idea to speak with an expert.

An expert will tell you whether or not your AC is worth keeping or if it’s a better idea to buy a new AC unit. You might also want to learn about the different issues that arise with AC’s and how to go about troubleshooting them.

Keep An Eye On Your Energy Bills

New Air conditioners are energy efficient. Many of them have high SEER ratings, which refers to how energy efficient they are. If you want to find out what the SEER rating of your current AC is, then speak to a professional. Then you can compare your current unit to what’s currently out there.

Besides energy efficiency, your AC’s power matters. As a unit becomes older, it becomes less powerful. If you do not properly maintain your air conditioner, then the chances are it will not be as powerful as it should be.

When overall efficiency goes down, then your energy bills will increase. If you notice that your bills are getting bigger month after month, then it’s time to consider upgrading your unit seriously.

Repairs Are Need Often

Older units result in higher energy bills. Not only that but repairing them can become expensive and exhaustive. Every now and then making repairs to units is fine, but when your unit constantly needs to be fixed, then it’s time to get a replacement.

Performing multiple repairs throughout the summer is not good for everyone in the household, nor will it do your bank account any good. Even small repairs add up to high costs as time goes by. Plus, if repairs are needed frequently, then it means your AC has something seriously wrong with it.

Are you spending a lot of time and money fixing up your air conditioning system? If so, then it’s time to take your money and invest it into a unit that will be more powerful and one that will last for a long time to come.

Your Unit’s R-22 Needs

Does your AC unit need more refrigerant then necessary? If so, then it might have a leak. Topping off your unit with Freon, also called R-22, can cost you a lot of money. You have to pay for the refrigerant itself, as well as for a technician to top the unit off. The bottom line is fixing a leak, hiring an expert and paying for coolant can easily cost you around $1,000, more or less.

If a unit contains R-22 and it develops a leak, then you should replace your AC unit. In the short and long-term, this will be the best decision to make.