Air Conditioner Service or Air Conditioner Replacement: What to Consider

September 11, 2015

Mild weather is becoming a realistic possibility in Litchfield Park, 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 climbing 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 get that new air conditioner now or simply get your annual air conditioner service completed?

At Cooler Tymes LLC, we know that it can be a tough decision to make, so here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re unsure which route 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 puts out. 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 average 12-15 year lifecycle 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 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 assessing the two.

Air conditioner service

  • Get multiple estimates to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
  • Keep track of when your warranty is up and note what it includes 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 wanting.
  • 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 couple of the variables, but the experts at Cooler Tymes LLC are more than happy to help you choose which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes necessary. Give us a call at 623-208-6444 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.