Is It Time for a New Air Conditioner

Wondering whether to replace or repair your air conditioner? If you have found yourself spending money on repairs, it can be difficult to determine whether to spend money on repairs or if it is time for a new air conditioner.

Buying a new air conditioner can help you save money on your monthly utility bills. That is because there are almost constant improvements in the efficiency of new air conditioners. However, air conditioners are built to last for several years. Modern air conditioners are designed to last around 15 years with average use. Replacing an air conditioner while it still has years of life can cost you more money than you will save with a new system.

Here are some signs it might be time to replace your system.

Is the air conditioner 10 years old or older? While modern machines can last upwards of 15 years, the lifespan for older models is 10 to 12 years. If your air conditioner is getting older, it may be time to replace it. Of course, part of this depends on the wear and tear of your system. Your use patterns and maintenance habits can impact the life of your machine. If you have not kept it in good condition or if you purchased a home where a previous owner skipped the yearly maintenance, your AC may have a shorter lifespan.

Your utility bills are on the rise. This one can be tricky to determine, because you may be paying more per kilowatt-hour. However, if you notice that your energy use is on the rise, your AC could be losing efficiency. At some point in time, the difference in efficiency between an older model and a newer model can make replacement the smarter financial option.

You are having to complete frequent repairs. Assuming you are getting normal maintenance on your AC, you should not be dealing with repeated breakdowns. That is because routine maintenance lets HVAC techs spot and fix potential problems before they occur. If you are getting regular maintenance and your air conditioner is still breaking down frequently, it is a sign that your AC is on its way to being inoperable. Plus, depending on what type of repairs you are having to do, the repairs can be more expensive than a new system.

You have an AC that still uses R-22 Freon. Many older air conditioners use R-22 Freon, an older coolant that can be devastating to the environment. It has not been manufactured in the US since 2019. That means that if you do get a leak in your coolant system and need a recharge, it may be much more expensive than it previously was. Even worse, your AC tech may be unable to source any of that refrigerant.