When you compare the cost of home upgrades, AC replacement is high on the list. An air conditioner repair may be more cost-effective in many situations. In other circumstances, it may not be. Replacing an AC system is sometimes more practical from a cost and convenience perspective. At AC Plus, we can help you make an informed decision, install a new high-efficiency unit, and set you up with affordable financing options.
If you’re still unsure whether to replace or repair your air conditioning system, here are the main factors to consider:
Age of Your AC Unit
Generally, a residential air conditioner lasts 10 to 15 years; some high-end systems can last longer. Start thinking of replacing any AC that’s over a decade old. You could avoid costly repairs or at least plan for an installation that meets your home cooling needs.
A system that requires repairs every few months or is very costly should be replaced. Your expenditures can go toward the price of a new system. Repairs won’t likely be needed for a few years and AC systems are more efficient than they were a few years ago. Therefore, AC replacement can be a very cost-effective decision.
Cost of Service
According to Angi, AC replacement can cost $3,900 to $8,000 (for the unit alone). The cost can be affected by the unit’s type, size, brand, and efficiency rating. Additionally, you must consider the cost of labor, installing new ductwork, or purchasing an extended warranty. Replacing an air conditioner is an investment, but let’s look at repair costs to explain why it may be worth it.
An AC repair varies in cost depending on the problem. Fixing a small leak or replacing a small component like a fan motor or expansion valve can cost a few hundred dollars. Replacing an evaporator coil or compressor can cost over $2,000. The cost-benefit depends on the exact repair expense vs. the cost of a new unit.
If repairing an AC costs more than $5,000 or over half the amount of a new one, replacing it is usually the logical choice.
Repair Frequency
A one-off repair may make sense, but repairing your air conditioner every few months is expensive and a waste of time. Having to call an AC repair company repeatedly is also stressful. It’s time to replace the system, whether it has worn out or experienced weather-related damage. A new air conditioner is more reliable and saves you money in the long run. It also provides you with comfort and gives you peace of mind.
Signs of Trouble
You may consider repairing or replacing your AC unit, depending on what’s wrong with it. Many issues can be fixed. But if the system is older and/or shows one or more of the following signs of trouble, ask your local contractor about replacing it:
- Increasingly loud noise
- Frequent breakdowns
- Increased indoor humidity
- Refrigerant or water leaks
- Rising energy bills
- The unit blows hot air
- Poor airflow
- Uneven cooling
- Burning or musty smells
Energy Efficiency
An aging air conditioning system can cost you more in ongoing repairs and increased energy usage. If your energy bills keep rising and your home isn’t comfortable, regardless of how often you set the thermostat, AC replacement can save you money over time. As the system nears the end of its lifespan, it can develop various issues that further decrease efficiency. Consult with your local HVAC contractor as to whether it makes sense to repair or replace the unit.
Cost of Your Energy Bills
Your monthly utility bills should be similar to the same time last year. Drastic shifts are often not due to price increases but declining AC efficiency. An older air conditioner will become less efficient no matter how well it’s maintained.
Consider AC replacement if your energy bills are high. Air conditioners are rated using the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit is. The standards have also changed. An AC unit installed in the 1990s was required to have at least a 10 SEER rating. This went up to 13 in 2006 and 14 in 2015. High-efficiency systems are rated above 20 SEER.
However, replacement isn’t only for meeting standards. The unit may have been improperly charged or sized to begin with, or it may have worn mechanical or electrical parts that are reducing its efficiency.
Indoor Air Quality
An aging air conditioner can struggle to trap particulates. Dust, pollen, and other particulates can more easily enter your home as its performance declines. Repairs often can’t reverse this, so you’re better off replacing your AC unit.
The effects of poor indoor air quality can include
- Increased allergy symptoms
- Asthma attacks
- Reduced cooling performance
- HVAC system damage
- Mold growth
Refrigerant
Replace your air conditioning unit as soon as possible if it uses R-22 refrigerant. Freon has been banned due to the environmental harm it can cause. Acquiring reclaimed sources is extremely expensive, and most AC contractors won’t recharge R-22 or even perform repairs. In this case, AC replacement isn’t just the only choice but is more cost-effective.
Mismatched Components
We recommend replacing an air conditioning system in which the indoor or outdoor unit was replaced separately at some point. Condenser units and air handlers are designed to work together. If mismatched, they won’t work efficiently and are at a greater risk of breaking down. Therefore, a mismatched system with persistent issues should be replaced.
Expired Warranty
Even if your AC unit has never had a problem, a repair will be expensive if the warranty has expired. Warranties also have strict terms. The warranty may be invalid if the unit wasn’t serviced regularly by a maintenance professional or if other conditions weren’t met. This means having to pay in full for any repair. Nonetheless, not all repairs and components are covered by every warranty. Replacement can be a better choice if your AC has severe problems.
Your AC Unit’s Appearance
Air conditioning units may or may not go with your home décor. You should replace an AC that looks old and rusty. Or, if you’ve redecorated or renovated your home, it may no longer have aesthetic value. That’s just one more reason to replace an aging air conditioning unit.
New Technology
Holding on to an aging AC unit isn’t only a disadvantage regarding comfort and efficiency. It also denies you access to the latest technologies. Newer air conditioning systems may be compatible with smart thermostats, include variable-speed blowers, or support temperature zoning.
Replacement Incentives
You may be tempted to repair your AC once again. However, coupons and deals from an AC installer, manufacturer or utility company rebates, or federal tax credits can make an investment in AC replacement more worthwhile. Research financial incentives you may qualify for when weighing your decision.
Contact AC Plus for Help with AC Replacement or Repair
If you live in Victorville, Rancho Cucamonga, and surrounding areas, AC Plus Heating & Cooling can provide any type of AC repair or help you decide on AC replacement. Our family-owned and operated company specializes in replacing residential air conditioning systems with high-efficiency models. We provide free estimates, fair pricing, and access to affordable financing options, plus industry-leading warranties and guarantees.
For more information or to request service, call 760-243-4440 today
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