How to Know When You Need AC Replacement

Air conditioning units and HVAC systems are costly to replace. It’s the reason why we go to such great lengths to make them last. From annual maintenance service to necessary repairs when parts break down, we do what it takes to keep our systems running.

However, there eventually comes a time when you have to have to replace an old or broken down system.

Choosing between when you need when you need AC replacement an AC repair service and can be a hard decision. You want to make the best choice for your wallet, but sometimes it’s necessary to look beyond the price tag and consider the long-term benefits.

Below you’ll find some of the most common indicators that it’s time to buy a new system for your home.

Signs It’s Time for an AC Replacement

Most air conditioning units and HVAC systems have a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. However, Arizona’s brutal heat often puts additional strain on air conditioning units, forcing them to work harder than usual.

Like a hard-ridden horse, it puts miles on your system. Parts wear out quicker; components break more often. While regular maintenance prolongs your system’s lifespan, it’s important to know when to repair and when to replace.

The difference can save you exponentially in the long run.

1. Your System Keeps Breaking Down

Think of your AC unit the same way you think of your car. When you find yourself on a first name basis with your air conditioning company because you’re calling in a technician every month, it’s time to consider replacing your unit.

Even if the repairs are seemingly inexpensive, the frequency of those repairs adds up. What you spend over the course of several months may have been better invested in a newer, more reliable unit.

If your AC company or technician hasn’t brought it up already, ask them what it would cost to replace your unit. While the overall bill may seem overwhelming, most companies offer payment plan opportunities.

2. The Repair Costs More than the System is Worth

Sometimes a repair is as simple as replacing a component. Other times, it may be a complicated affair that costs more than your last down payment on a vehicle.

When a repair job becomes a costly investment, its time to start weighing the pros and cons of fixing your existing unit versus buying a new one. Ask yourself:

• Will my unit be at risk for breaking down again after the repair?
• Is my unit old already?
• Is my unit showing any other symptoms that it is wearing out or will need additional repairs?

If the cost to repair your system is about the same as a down payment on a new unit, consider taking this opportunity to upgrade. It’s cheaper than repairing your unit now and replacing it later.

Plus, you may find a new unit actually saves you on your monthly electric bill if your current system is outdated. Air conditioning models on the market today use new technology that makes them more efficient than ever before.

3. Your AC Unit is Old and Outdated

Did you know some old air conditioning models are no longer legal to manufacture and install? Units who use hydrochlorofluorocarbon refrigerant are no longer in production due to their hazardous effect on the ozone layer.

But how do you know if your unit uses this kind of refrigerant? Most air conditioning units manufactured prior to January 1, 2010 fall into this category.

You can also check the nameplate on your unit. This usually lists the type of refrigerant used for that model. If you see (HCFC)-22 or R-22, your unit uses hydrochlorofluorocarbon.

Other signs your air conditioning is getting up there in years includes the noisy operation of your unit, higher humidity within your home, higher energy bills, and a system that runs frequently.

Which leads us to our next sign…

4. Your Air Conditioning No Longer Runs Efficiently

Old systems wear down, even with maintenance and repairs. As your unit gets older, it doesn’t operate as efficiently. The problem with this is that it could be costing you money–and lots of it.

It takes energy for your system to operate. If your AC unit has to constantly kick on to maintain the temperature within your home, you’re using a lot of electricity.

It’s a problem you’ll start to see in your electric bill. While you may think the expense is manageable on a bill-by-bill basis, those extra dollars add up. In fact, you may be throwing away hundreds of dollars per year.

New AC or HVAC systems have higher SEER ratings, which means they expend less energy than older models. This upgrade may cost you the price of a new unit, but as the years go by, your monthly savings will pay for the expense.

How Much Does a New AC Unit Cost?

If you’ve never had to purchase a new air conditioning system before, you may look at the price tag and find it intimidating. The average cost of a central air conditioning system ranges on average between $3,731 to $7,179.

How much you spend depends on the make and model of your unit, what it is capable of, and what size you require. However, the good news is these units are far more affordable than they seem.

Between rebates, special offers, and payment plans, the cost of a new air conditioning unit can be whittled down into an easy, monthly payment.

Start by getting a quote from a trusted AC company like ours. Ask if there are any special promotions on units that suit your needs, and inquire what your payment plan will look like should you make the purchase.

You may find the money you save from no longer needing constant repairs or wasting excess energy make AC replacement an affordable option.

Call Us to Discuss Your AC Replacement Needs

Do you think you might be in need of an AC replacement? If so, schedule a service visit with one of our expert AC technicians. We’ve been in the business of delivering exceptional AC and HVAC services since 1996.

If you suspect your AC is beyond repair, Contact Us today!