When your air conditioner in Manassas breaks down, it can be hard to know if it’s time for an AC repair, or if a replacement would be a greater option for the long run. The answer isn’t identical for every homeowner. For instance, a system that has been well maintained could be a realistic candidate for an AC repair because it will generally have a longer existence than another system that hasn’t been serviced. Many other aspects should be thought about additionally to this. We’ve got some questions that can help guide 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 arrange an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Older systems usually don’t operate as efficiently as they did when they were new—and particularly not as well as a new, energy-efficient model. Actually, you could decrease 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 vary based on your particular equipment and how well it’s been taken care of, but Energy Star recommends upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your present-day central air conditioner is older than 10 years old.
Past your unit’s age, examine your AC repair history. If your system has failed a few times, it’s prone to break down again—this situation can end up costing you more money in the long run. When you take into account likely rebates and increased efficiency, is a new system going to be more lucrative over time?
Many technicians advise 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, just get the repair.
Here are some other questions you should consider:
- Is your house cozy enough in the summer? If not, your system isn’t working properly.
- Are your energy bills going up without enhanced usage? This is a symptom 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 did something to make your home more energy efficient, your system can actually 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 get a replacement, Woody's Sudden Service Inc can help! Our specialists can help you establish how much life is left in your system and what the top option for your home and budget will be. Call us at 703-278-2036 to setup an appointment for us to visit you.