Do you have an older air conditioner in your home in Vero Beach, FL? You’ve probably heard that replacing it will lessen your carbon footprint and reduce your energy costs. At the same time, you need to assess whether replacing the unit will be cost-effective. Consider these factors when determining whether you should repair or replace your air conditioner:
The Age of Your Central Air Conditioner Matters
The average life of a central air conditioner is about 14 years. With proper annual preventive maintenance, many units can easily last longer. Regular maintenance will keep your unit in top operating condition since all of its components will remain clean. As a result, your AC system won’t have to work as hard.
Check the SEER Rating for the Air Conditioner
If your AC system is more than 20 years old, it’s a good idea to assess how much a new system will save you in energy costs. If your system has a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) of 10 or lower, it’s definitely time to replace it. This measurement assesses how efficiently your residential AC system is operating.
Is Your Central Air Conditioner Talking to You?
AC systems that are beginning to fail exhibit signs that it’s time for a change. Some of the indications of a failing AC system include frequent breakdowns, short cycling (where the unit turns on and off repeatedly), odd noises and hot spots within your home. You’ll need to assess whether those repairs are cost-efficient versus buying a new unit. The rule of thumb is if your repair costs exceed more than 10 percent of the cost of buying and installing a new AC system, it’s time to replace it.
If you believe a new air conditioner is in your future, contact the experts at Barker Air Conditioning and Heating. We look forward to helping you select and install the right AC system for your home and budget.
Image provided by iStock
