How to Know When to Replace the Air Conditioner
Replacing an air conditioner when it shows signs that it’s nearing the end of its lifespan can help prevent breakdowns during sweltering summer days when air conditioning is needed most, ensuring the home stays cool and comfortable. This blog post will share common signs that it’s time for air conditioner replacement.
Old Age
The age of an AC unit is one of the most reliable indicators of when replacement is necessary. An aging air conditioner that is experiencing problems indicates that AC replacement is needed. Most air conditioning systems have a lifespan of about 10 to 20 years, so when an AC unit crosses the decade mark and begins showing signs of problems and performance issues, it's a sign to replace it.
Replacing an old air conditioner that is having issues is more cost-effective than continuing to pay for repairs on an aging unit that won’t last much longer. The efficiency of AC units naturally declines with age. After 10 years, even well-maintained units will operate less efficiently compared to modern energy-efficient models. So, replacing an old air conditioner and getting a new AC installation will also help save on cooling costs. Additionally, older systems often use outdated refrigerants like R-22 (Freon), which is being phased out due to environmental concerns, making repairs increasingly expensive and complicated as they become scarce.
Expensive or Frequent Repairs
An air conditioner that requires too many repairs in a short timeframe is another clear warning sign that replacement may be needed. Rather than continuing to pay for AC repair frequently, replacing the air conditioner can be a smarter financial decision because repair costs add up quickly. These expenses can exceed the value of the unit itself.
Additionally, an air conditioner may need replacing when it requires a very expensive air conditioning repair. The repair-versus-replace decision often comes down to simple math. Many HVAC technicians recommend following the $5,000 rule: multiply the repair cost by the age of the AC unit in years. Is the result over $5,000? Then replacement is likely more cost-effective than continued air conditioner repair.
High Energy Bills
Skyrocketing energy bills often serve as another warning sign to replace an air conditioner because the energy efficiency of an air conditioner decreases over time. However, high energy bills can also occur when air conditioner maintenance is neglected, air filter replacement is needed, or a problem with the system requires repair.
So, if air conditioning systems have been maintained properly and have clean filters, a professional should be called to inspect the system and determine whether repair or replacement is needed. With an older air conditioner, age is likely the culprit of inefficiency, and replacement will likely be needed.
About Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air
Walker Plumbing, Heating & Air has more than 20 years of experience serving the St. George community. They provide same-day service, 24/7 live answers, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them for AC replacement and installation services in St. George, UT.
