Mild weather is becoming a real possibility in Lake Worth, which means one thing: it’s time to schedule your air conditioner service. However, it’s realistic that it may not be that clear cut if your system is starting to get up there in age and has been causing issues over the last few years.
Air conditioner replacement is an investment in your home, like many 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 completed?
At Smyth Air Conditioning Inc, we know that it can be a tough decision to make, so here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re uncertain which route to choose.
1. Air Conditioner Age
This is probably the biggest factor in to your decision, as air conditioner technology has improved quite a few 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 setting aside that money towards a new system.
However, the normal 12-15 year lifetime of an air conditioner doesn’t mean it can’t work well beyond that. If air conditioner service has been routine and it has been correctly maintained, you could be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always unique circumstances 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 few estimates to make certain 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 calculated by the size of your home.
- Cost will fluctuate depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re searching for.
- The higher the SEER rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.
After you figure out 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 team at Smyth Air Conditioning Inc are more than happy to help you decide which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes imminent. Give us a call at 561-533-6066 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.