As a homeowner, it’s important to know when repairs are enough and when investing in air conditioning replacement is the smarter long-term solution. While replacing your AC requires an upfront investment, a new system can improve energy efficiency, enhance indoor comfort, and help you avoid the ongoing cost of frequent repairs.
How Long Should an Air Conditioner Last?
Although the New York Times provides advice on how to keep your house cool throughout the year, replacing your air conditioner entirely is ultimately the best course of action. The lifespan of most central units ranges from 10 to 15 years, but it depends on factors like:
- How much maintenance have you done
- What your local climate is like
- How the initial installation went
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Warning Signs Your AC May Need Replacement
There are plenty of signs that warn you that your AC may need to be replaced, not just repaired. Here are a few of those general AC replacement signs:
- Sign 1: The unit is 10-15 years old or more
Once parts are this old, they start to break down, and full replacement makes more sense.
- Sign 2: Your AC refrigerant is no longer available
Certain units have refrigerants that are no longer available or are very high in cost. Once your refrigerant is out of date, replacing it becomes the only option when you need to have some added to your AC unit.
- Sign 3: Repair costs are high, and replacing is easier
The general train of thought is that if a single repair costs more than $5,000, you’re better off replacing it, as other repairs will likely follow.
- Sign 4: Your energy bill keeps rising
You know how much energy you use and how much it costs each month. While energy prices are on the rise, if your bills rise above and beyond the standard price rates, your unit is no longer efficient.
- Sign 5: The units make strange noises
Listen for squealing, clicking, and grinding noises to tell you something is failing inside your AC unit.
- Sign 6: Temperatures aren’t consistent
If one room is hot and another cold, something isn’t right. The compressor might be failing and that’s a big deal.
Repair or Replace? A Simple Decision Checklist
The Washington Post offers tips on avoiding financial pitfalls around air conditioning, one of which includes replacing the unit when the time is right. If you need to know when to replace AC units in your home, see which of these items appear on your checklist.
- Your system is too old to replace
- Your unit needs repairs that cost over $5,000 to replace
- Your AC has broken down three or more times in as many years replace
- Your unit has old refrigerant types replace
- Your unit needs a minor repair
- Your unit is a young repair
- Your unit is efficient repair
- Your unit runs effectively, most of the time repair
Homeowner’s AC Replacement Checklist
If you conclude that you need a new AC unit for your home, it’s time to make another checklist! Here are some items to place on that list.
- What Type of System Do You Need/Want?
There are many types of systems on the market, and the right size is important as well. You don’t want a system too large or too small for your home’s size. Check unit styles, SEER ratings, warranties, and other variables.
- Which Contractor Will You Use?
Almost as important as the unit you choose is the contractor that installs it. Get several quotes and check licenses and insurance coverage. You need to trust the company working on a job this big and important in your home.
- How Much Can You Afford?
AC units aren’t cheap, and you will need to figure out what you can afford. Some companies have payment plans, or you may be able to take out a home loan if needed.
- When Can the Installation Happen?
After you have the details worked out, all that’s left is choosing a date for the installation to occur.
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What to Consider Before Choosing a New AC System
When the AC replacement signs are there, you have a lot to consider as you choose a new system. It might be best to choose a reliable contractor first; then you can learn about SEER ratings, sizing options, warranties, and other variables under a professional’s guidance.
In conclusion
When the time comes to replace your AC unit, and it will if you live in your home long enough, call the professionals at Astera for advice. Our HVAC experts can walk you through the options and the installation process on a step-by-step basis to ensure you are comfortable with every aspect. We will also evaluate your home honestly. If you can get by with a repair, we’ll tell you as much! If you move ahead with replacement, we’re here for every part of the process, and then we can help you maintain the unit well into the future.
