When your air conditioner in Rapid City fails, 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 identical for every homeowner. For example, a system that has been serviced regularly could be a realistic candidate for an AC repair because it will generally have a longer lifetime than another system that hasn’t been maintained. Many other factors should be taken into account 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 large factor in your decision to order an AC repair or invest in a replacement. Dated systems usually don’t operate as effectively as they did when they were new—and especially not as effectively as a new, energy-efficient model. In fact, you could lower your energy consumption by more than you thought possible if you replace your outdated system with a new, energy-efficient unit.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 change based on your exact equipment and how well it’s been maintained, but Energy Star proposes upgrading to an energy-efficient unit if your current central air conditioner is greater than 10 years old.
Beyond your unit’s age, look at your AC repair history. If your system has failed several times, it’s prone to fail again—this circumstance can end up costing you more money in the future. When you consider possible rebates and enhanced efficiency, is a new system going to be more economical over time?
Many technicians suggest following “The $5,000” rule. Multiply the age of your equipment 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 failing.
- Is your system properly sized? If your system is too small for your home, it can’t do its job. Also, if you’ve just taken measures to make your home more energy efficient, your system can in fact be larger than you need to cool a very efficient home.
If you’re not sure if you need an AC repair or if it’s time to consider a replacement, Street Heating and Cooling can help! Our professionals 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 605-206-3915 to setup an appointment for us to come out.