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As a home or business owner, you have a lot to worry about – that includes your heating and air conditioning. One of the hardest decisions to make regarding your HVAC system is whether or not you need a new unit. While replacing your air conditioner is a big investment, some repairs can become large investments too. We know the HVAC world can get confusing, which is why we put together this short article. Here are a few things to look out for and to consider when deciding whether or not to replace or repair your air conditioner.
Age
This might be the easiest sign that you are in need of a new air conditioner. Good quality heating and air conditioning brands should make air conditioners that can last about 15 years (if well taken care of and maintained). If your air conditioner is starting to fade on you and is around 15 years old, it could be time for that replacement. However, if you air conditioner is only five years old but has already caused you a laundry list of problems, you could need a replacement sooner than you think.
Repair and service history
While purchasing and installing a brand new air conditioner unit is not cheap, neither are consistent repairs. If your air conditioner has had countless repairs on it, it could be time for a replacement. Repairs are much cheaper than a new installation, but if your list of repairs is starting to match your budget for a new unit, it’s time for a replacement.
Comfort level in your home
Your air conditioner works hard for you and your home to keep it feeling comfortable. If you are finding that no matter what you set the thermostat to, your home can’t get comfortable, it might be time for replacement. Have a professional come out to assess your unit to see if the damage done can be fixed from a simple repair or if it needs to be replaced.
Energy bill cost
If you usually keep the same temperature in your home throughout the year and the same in each season, your utility bills should not greatly differ. If you are finding that your utility bills have increased as of late, this is a tell-tale sign that your air conditioner could need a repair or even a replacement.
Cost of repair
While the amount of repairs certainly matter when deciding if you should replace or repair, but the cost of the repair also greatly matters. If a single repair is almost half the cost of a new installation, you should really consider installing a new one because the chances of you having to repair the unit again is pretty high.
Efficiency
If your air conditioner has a low SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), the cost of operating it is typically higher than one of a higher SEER. New manufactured air conditioners have to be at least 13 SEER, so if your AC unit is lower than that, it’s time for a new one. The SEER rating is important in keeping your unit running effectively and efficiently.
We know how difficult and frustrating this process can be, but we are here to help. If you have any questions or concerns about anything we mentioned above, give us a call today at 864-617-1364. The team at David Taylor Heating & Air is always happy to help anyone with their HVAC questions.