Mild weather is becoming more and more of a possibility in Albuquerque, which means one thing: it’s time to arrange for 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 problems 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 just get your annual air conditioner service handled?
At I-Deal HVAC, we know that it can be a hard 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 lot of things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it puts out. If your system 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 typical 12-15 year lifespan of an air conditioner doesn’t mean it can’t work well beyond that. If air conditioner service has been scheduled regularly and it has been well maintained, you could 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 number of things to keep in mind when comparing the two.
Air conditioner service
- Get a couple estimates to make certain you’re getting the best deal.
- Keep track of when your warranty expires and note what it contains 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 looking for.
- The higher the SEER rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.
After you figure out 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 I-Deal HVAC are more than happy to help you decide which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes a necessity. Give us a call at 505-445-1250 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.