As the heat and humidity outside continue to increase throughout the summer, the last thing homeowners want to deal with is a broken air conditioner. Luckily, many air conditioning issues can be resolved quickly and relatively painlessly with the help of a knowledgeable HVAC repair company. However, there are some signs to look out for that may indicate it’s time for a replacement.

Read more: Why is my air conditioner so loud?

If you find yourself wondering “should I repair or replace my air conditioner?”, there are a few factors to consider that will help inform your decision. The answers to the following questions could indicate whether a repair or full replacement is needed.

How old is your air conditioner?

If your HVAC system is over 10 years old, it may need to be replaced. Most air conditioners today last between 10 and 15 years, however, well-maintained systems may last even longer.

If you’re unsure of the age of your air conditioning system, look for an inspection sticker on the HVAC unit or check the serial number, as the first four digits often represent the year and week the unit was manufactured.

It’s also a good idea to contact an HVAC company to evaluate the condition of the system, regardless of age. Annual inspections and preventative maintenance are key to extending the longevity of your air conditioner.

Read more: Why is my air conditioner blowing hot air?

Is your air conditioner running efficiently?

Even if your 10-year-old air conditioner seems to be working fine, it may be costing you more to run due to reduced energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save as much as 20-40% of cooling costs by replacing outdated air conditioners with newer, more efficient models.

Are recurring repairs worth the cost?

If your air conditioner is relatively new and hasn’t given you much trouble in the past, there’s likely a simple fix to the problem. However, paying to fix recurring issues may not be worth the money when you compare the cost of repairs to the cost of a new air conditioner.

It’s important to take into consideration both the cost of repairs and the age of the air conditioner when deciding if replacement is the right choice. While a repair that costs a few hundred dollars may be worth it if your system is only a few years old, is it worth dumping that money into a unit that’s going to give out by the time the next cooling season rolls around? Probably not. In that case, you’re better off spending your money on a newer air conditioner that will help you save more later down the line.

Ask yourself this question to determine whether or not a replacement is the better choice:

Is the cost of the repair equal to or greater than 50% the value of the HVAC system itself?

Consider the initial cost of the HVAC system, taking into account its age and depreciation over time. Add in the cost of past repairs you’ve put into maintaining the unit as well.

While this isn’t a hard and fast rule, it’ll help provide perspective when evaluating whether you should pay for the repair or go ahead with a full replacement. An annual inspection can also help homeowners determine the “value” of their HVAC systems.

Here’s why you should replace your air conditioner:

If you’re on the fence about replacing your air conditioning unit, consider some of the benefits a new HVAC system can offer:

• Newer air conditioner models are designed with increased air filtration, which helps improve air quality and increase home comfort.
• Depending on the manufacturer, a new HVAC system also means homeowners benefit from new warranties, which protects your investment and offers peace of mind.
• Today’s top air conditioners are more energy efficient than ever, which means more savings in your pocket each month.
• If your home uses a heat pump system or dual fuel system for heating and cooling, you can also expect greater efficiency and savings during the heating season.

When deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioner, it’s critical to consider the best long-term solution, not just the quick fix.

Repair or replace? CroppMetcalfe can help you decide.

With all this information, it can still be very difficult to determine the best course of action. So if you find yourself asking “should I repair or replace my air conditioner?”, reach out to the HVAC experts at CroppMetcalfe.

Our 5-Star Technicians can provide you with the solution that best meets your unique HVAC needs. Call us at 703-698-8855 or schedule a service appointment online today.