Having problems with your aging central a/c unit? Although you’ve probably already decided to call an air conditioner repair specialist to come out and fix it, pursuing repairs may not be the most cost-effective, long-term choice. In some cases, opting for a complete air conditioner replacement is a better option, as doing will save you money in the long run.
How can you determine whether air conditioner repair or replacement is the most cost-effective choice in your situation? Read on to find out.
Consider the Age of Your Air Conditioner
At some point, every central a/c unit approaches the end of its functional life. When is that point? The average air conditioner lasts about 10-15 years, depending on how well it’s taken care of. If your unit has already passed its 10th birthday, it may be time to start seriously thinking about air conditioner replacement.
Not only will the unit become progressively less efficient as it ages, but you’ll also likely need to replace it within the next few years anyway. In the meantime, its machinery may continue to have problems as it deteriorates, which can necessitate frequent repairs. The sooner you replace your a/c, the sooner you’ll have a dependable, high-functioning unit.
Think About How Often You’re Paying for Repairs
If this is the first time you’re calling for air conditioner repairs, you probably don’t need to replace the unit provided it’s not having any serious problems. But if you feel like your a/c is always having issues and you’re frequently calling your air conditioner repair specialist, chances are your unit is on its way out.
An air conditioner that needs to be fixed regularly is likely costing you more than it should, both in the form of high energy bills and repairs. Opting for a/c replacement now will save you money in the run long as the new unit will function more efficiently and you won’t need to pay for frequent repairs.
Weigh the Cost of Air Conditioner Repair vs. A/C Replacement
Yes, the upfront cost of repairing your air conditioner will be less expensive than the cost of replacing the unit. But that’s not what you need to consider here. Instead, you want to weigh the long-term costs of continuing to repair the unit against the cost of a new a/c. Here’s how to determine that number:
● Have an air conditioner repair specialist inspect the unit and give you an estimate for the necessary repairs.
● Multiply the projected cost of repairs by the age of your a/c unit in years.
● If the number you get is greater than $5,000, you’re better off replacing the unit.
Alternatively, you can take the cost of an a/c replacement and split it in half. If the repair estimate you get is greater than half the cost of a new unit, it’s in your best interest to opt for a replacement.
Need Air Conditioner Repair or Replacement Near Wisconsin Rapids?
If your air conditioner is acting up, our team at Steve’s Plumbing & Heating is just a phone call away. We’ll send an HVAC expert to your home who can quickly diagnose the problem and let you know whether air conditioner repairs or replacing the unit is the best option for long-term performance. We serve homeowners throughout Wisconsin Rapids, Stevens Point, Marshfield, Wausau, and the surrounding areas and offer the best service guarantees in the business!
To get started, feel free to give us a call today at 815-421-1800 or request an estimate online. You can also get in touch by filling out our contact form, and we’ll get back to you shortly.