Mild weather is becoming more and more of a possibility in Mobile, which means one thing: it’s time to schedule your air conditioner service. However, it may not be that clear cut if your system is climbing up there in age and has been causing difficulties 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 get that new air conditioner now or arrange to get your annual air conditioner service done?
At Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, we know that it can be a hard decision to make, so here are a few tidbits to keep in mind if you’re not sure which path to choose.
1. Air Conditioner Age
This is more than likely the biggest factor in to your decision, as air conditioner technology has improved a number 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 applying that money towards a new system.
However, the average 12-15 year lifetime of an air conditioner doesn’t mean it can’t run well beyond that. If air conditioner service has been routine 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 unique circumstances when it comes to determining 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 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 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 options, 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 few of the variables, but the pros at Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc are more than happy to help you choose which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes imminent. Give us a call at 251-471-2674 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.