Mild weather is becoming more and more of a possibility in Murrieta, which means one thing: it’s time to arrange for your air conditioner service. However, it’s possible may not be that cut and dry if your system is starting to get up there in age and has been causing problems over the last few years.
Air conditioner replacement is an investment in your home, like most other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should buy that new air conditioner now or arrange to get your annual air conditioner service completed?
At Cool Air Solutions, we know that it can be a tough decision to make, so here are a few tidbits to keep in mind if you’re not sure which way to choose.
1. Air Conditioner Age
This is probably the biggest factor in to your decision, as air conditioner technology has improved a lot of things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it gives off. If your air conditioner is more than 12 years old, it may not make sense to put a lot of money in to repairs when you could be setting aside that money towards a new system.
However, the normal 12-15 year lifespan of an air conditioner doesn’t mean it can’t work well beyond that. If air conditioner service has been consistent and it has been properly maintained, you might be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always variables when it comes to determining the cost of replacing versus having air conditioner service and repairs done, but there are a few things to keep in mind when considering the two.
Air conditioner service
- Get a couple estimates to make certain you’re getting the best deal.
- Keep track of when your warranty runs out and note what it contains so you’re always saving as much as possible.
Air conditioner replacement
- Air conditioner size will be determined by the size of your home.
- Cost will vary depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re looking for.
- The higher the SEER rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.
After you calaculate the costs of both options, keep this helpful tip in mind: if your air conditioner service and repair is going to cost 1/3 or more of the cost of a new air conditioner and your system is between 12-15 years old, air conditioner replacement may be the better long-term solution.
Of course, these are only a few of the variables, but the pros at Cool Air Solutions are more than happy to help you decide which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes imminent. Give us a call at 951-299-9853 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.