Mild weather is becoming a real possibility in Haines City, which means one thing: it’s time to schedule your air conditioner service. However, it’s possible may not be that cut and dry if your system is beginning 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 nearly all other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should spring for that new air conditioner now or arrange to get your annual air conditioner service handled?
At Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co., we know that it can be a difficult decision to make, so here are a few things 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 produces. 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 putting that money towards a new system.
However, the average 12-15 year lifespan of an air conditioner doesn’t mean it can’t run well beyond that. If air conditioner service has been scheduled regularly and it has been well maintained, you might be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always unknowns when it comes to identifying the cost of replacing versus having air conditioner service and repairs done, but there are a couple things to keep in mind when considering the two.
Air conditioner service
- Get a couple estimates to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
- Keep track of when your warranty is up and note what it covers so you’re always saving as much as possible.
Air conditioner replacement
- Air conditioner size will be figured out 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 routes, 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 option.
Of course, these are only a small number of the variables, but the pros at Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. are more than happy to help you determine which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes a necessity. Give us a call at 863-216-2923 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.