When your air conditioner in Omaha breaks down, it can be difficult to know if it’s an occasion for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a better option for the long term. The answer isn’t identical for every homeowner. For instance, a system that has been serviced regularly could be a realistic candidate for an AC repair because it will generally have a longer existence than another system that hasn’t been upheld. Many other aspects should be taken into account in addition 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 choice to arrange an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Aged systems usually don’t operate as well as they did when they were new—and especially not as efficiently as a new, energy-efficient model. In reality, you could reduce your energy consumption by more than you may know if you replace your aged system with a new, energy-efficient unit. Usually, this savings will rationalize investment in a replacement system.
So how old is “too old”? That can differ based on your exact equipment and how well it’s been maintained, but Energy Star proposes upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your existing central air conditioner is more than 10 years old.
Beyond your unit’s age, look at your AC repair history. If your system has stopped working a few times, it’s prone to stop working again—this circumstance can end up costing you more money in the future. When you take into account possible rebates and enhanced efficiency, is a new system going to be more lucrative in the end?
Many professionals recommend following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your system by the cost of the AC repair. If it’s more than $5,000, replace the system. If it’s less, try the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house cozy enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t keeping up.
- Are your energy bills spiking without enhanced usage? This is a symptom that your air conditioner is on the fritz.
- Is your system properly sized? If your unit is too small for your home, it can’t do its job. Just the same, if you’ve recently did something to make your home more energy efficient, your system can in fact be bigger 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 think about a replacement, Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning can help! Our specialists can help you decide how much life lingers in your system and what the ideal option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 402-509-5940 to setup an appointment for us to come out.