Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioning System?
It’s the age-old question, especially when dealing with older air conditioning units that might be reaching the end of their anticipated lifespan. A repair can certainly be less expensive in the here and now, but it may not be the most economical in the long run.
So how can you make the best decision for your home and wallet? We explore the topic and come up with the major factors you should consider when faced with the classic ultimatum.
Proper Expectations for Air Conditioning
Cooling systems are expected to last 10-15 years, with proper maintenance. Based on this truth, you should be prepared for a replacement once you hit the 10-year mark to begin with. If you are able to extend the life of your unit, all the better. At some point, the cost to continue using it will surpass the cost of replacing it once you factor in cost plus efficiency.
Air Conditioning Efficiency
Efficiency is a topic that always comes up because it plays a massive role in the overall cost of having an air conditioning system. When it comes to efficiency, there are two forces at play:
- Diminished Efficiency – As your system ages, it loses efficiency. Without proper maintenance, this is especially true.
- Technology Enhancements – Technology has improved greatly in recent years, bringing greater efficiency and systems to market for consumers to choose.
In addition, there are significant reimbursement programs available through power companies as well as government incentives for consumers to take advantage of which helps to soften the blow of upgrading your systems.
Timing
One thing we can pretty much bank on is that winter is cold and summer is hot. If your air conditioning system is at the end of its lifespan and you are approaching the hottest months of the year, you may not want to push your luck. If something were to break, you can be without a cooling system for several days, or even longer depending on product availability. If you demand home comfort or have young children or elderly folks, you may not want to roll the dice.
A Trusted Professional Opinion
Consumers should enlist the services of a trusted, local HVAC company to help them decide the best path forward. If they have been caring for your current system, they will know it well and can help to ensure you get the most out of it. At the same time, they can consider the level of performance you are getting with your current system and weigh it against the cost of a replacement, incentives that might exist and what the best path forward might be for you and your home. At the very least, you can formulate a plan so that you are not caught off guard once a replacement becomes necessary.
McMackin Mechanical has been serving the Doylestown and greater Bucks County Community for years, offering top quality sales and service for your heating and cooling needs (and plumbing, too!) If you are unhappy with your current provider or need a second opinion for your system, give us a call. Our team of specialists will be happy to give you a comprehensive overview of your system and what your best options are.
Ready to get started? Give our office a call and we will be happy to schedule an appointment.
