As an HVAC expert, I am often asked the question: is it better to repair or replace an AC unit? The answer is not always straightforward, as it depends on various factors such as the age of the unit, its efficiency, and the extent of the repairs needed. However, there is a simple formula that is widely used in the industry to evaluate the best use of your money. The first step is to consider the age of your unit. According to the Department of Energy, the average lifespan of an air conditioning system in the United States is 15 to 20 years. However, in Florida where I am based, the system's lifespan can be much lower due to our year-round use and exposure to high levels of humidity, salt water, and sulfur.
In fact, the average lifespan here is around 10 to 12 years. Now, let's talk about efficiency. Over time, an air conditioner's operating efficiency decreases due to wear and tear or poor maintenance. This means that after fifteen years, your 12 SEER unit may be operating close to a 10 SEER level. This can result in significant savings in cooling costs if you upgrade to a newer and more efficient unit.
For example, switching from a 12 SEER unit to a 16 SEER unit can potentially save you up to 68% in cooling costs per year. But what about repairs? In most cases, homeowners call HVAC professionals for a second opinion when their units start having problems. And in many cases, these problems can be repaired instead of replacing the entire unit. Not only does this save you money in the long run, but it also saves you from frequent visits by an HVAC technician. As an honest HVAC technician, I always make sure to present all the options to my clients and give my professional opinion. However, there comes a time when repairs are no longer enough and it's time to replace the unit.
This is where having a professional evaluation is crucial. No matter how much preventive maintenance you do, there will come a point where a replacement is necessary. So, how do you know when it's time to replace your unit? One sign is if it starts leaking. In most cases, this is not something that can be repaired and a replacement is necessary. Additionally, if your unit is old and constantly needing repairs, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to invest in a newer and more reliable unit. But what if you're not planning on staying in your current home for long? In this case, a repair may be a better option.
If the repair only requires replacing a small part and your unit is still within its expected lifespan, it may be a no-brainer to go ahead with the repair. However, it's always best to have an HVAC professional check the motor and fan to ensure they are working properly. Ultimately, whether you should repair or replace your AC unit depends on various factors and should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. A professional can provide you with detailed information about your unit's problem and help you make an informed decision. In many cases, repairs can effectively restore the functionality of your air conditioning system or furnace.
