When your air conditioner in Rapid City stops working, it can be difficult to know if it’s time for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a smarter option for the long run. The answer isn’t similar for every homeowner. For instance, a system that has been well maintained could be a better candidate for an AC repair because it will generally have a longer existence than another system that hasn’t been maintained. Many other influences should be thought about additionally to this. We’ve got some questions that can help lead you.
How old is your system and how often are you repairing it?
The age of your air conditioner is a big factor in your decision to call for an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t function as efficiently as they did when they were new—and definitely not as efficiently as a new, energy-efficient model. In reality, you could decrease your energy consumption by more than you may know if you swap out your aged system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Most often, this savings will rationalize investment in a replacement system.
So how old is “too old”? That can differ based on your specific equipment and how well it’s been maintained, but Energy Star recommends upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your current central air conditioner is older than 10 years old.
Past your unit’s age, examine your AC repair history. If your system has broken down several times, it’s prone to stop working again—this circumstance can end up costing you more money in the long term. When you think about likely rebates and increased efficiency, is a new system going to be more lucrative in the end?
Many experts suggest following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your unit by the cost of the AC repair. If it’s more than $5,000, replace the system. If it’s less, go for the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house comfortable enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t keeping up.
- Are your energy bills increasing without increased usage? This is a indication that your air conditioner is breaking down.
- Is your system properly sized? If your system is too small for your home, it can’t function properly. Also, if you’ve just taken measures to make your home more energy efficient, your system can essentially be greater than you need to cool a very efficient home.
If you’re not positive if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to get a replacement, Precision Mechanical can help! Our professionals can help you determine how much life remains in your system and what the best option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 605-206-3766 to setup an appointment for us to check it out.