Hannah Barney

Your Air Conditioner: Should you REPAIR or REPLACE it?

We’re less than a week until Memorial Day! This day marks that which many of us consider the beginning of “summer”, even though “technically” this year it doesn’t come until the end of June. With the changing of seasons already upon, you’ve definitely begun to think about your home air conditioning. So the question is: Is your unit in good shape? Or is it possibly time for that air conditioner replacement?

Whether you’re hosting a graduation party, a baby shower, or a birthday party, you want to make sure that your home is cool and comfortable for your guests..so the real question for you is:

Should you REPAIR or REPLACE your AC?

Here’s one way to find out: answer our 5 questions about your air conditioner:

  1. Is your system older than 12 years?
  • AC units older than 12 years are much less efficient and have higher repair costs
  1. Does your system have extensive damage? (Ex. Problems with the motor, compressor or coils)
  • Minor repairs such as loose ductwork or small electrical issues are fine. However, if you have more major repairs such as problems with the motor or compressor, then it’s time to think about replacement options.
  1. Would the cost of your repairs be greater than ½ price of a new unit?
  • More likely than not, by this point your unit is no longer under warranty. The repairs are costing you more than you would like and are larger concerns (ie. motor, compressor, coils).
  1. Have you had 3 or more major repairs on your unit?
  • If you have already had to put in so much money to repair your unit, you may have already spent enough to have purchased a new one instead! Take the time to estimate your repair spending and see how it matches up to that unit you would want right now. Most people are extremely surprised on how much they have spent already.
  1. Does your unit fail to meet proper efficiency standards? (>10 EER rating or >13 SEER rating)
  • If you still meet these standards, then your unit could be worth the repairs. If not, a newer unit could end up saving you substantial $ on monthly costs. New AC units can be up to 20 SEER efficiency levels.

If you answered “yes” to more than 1 of these questions, then it’s time to seriously consider replacing your unit rather than repairing it. In the long run, it’s going to save you a lot more time because you will be using a more effective and efficient unit.