Mild weather is becoming more and more of a possibility in Tucson, which means one thing: it’s time to set up your air conditioner service. However, it’s realistic that it may not be that clear cut if your system is climbing up there in age and has been causing problems over the last few years.
Air conditioner replacement is an investment in your home, like most other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should buy that new air conditioner now or simply get your annual air conditioner service handled?
At Ambient Air, we know that it can be a hard decision to make, so here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re not sure which way to choose.
1. Air Conditioner Age
This is probably the biggest factor in to your decision, as air conditioner technology has improved a lot of things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it produces. If your equipment is more than 12 years old, it may not make sense to put a lot of money in to repairs when you could be applying that money towards a new system.
However, the normal 12-15 year lifecycle of an air conditioner doesn’t mean it can’t operate well beyond that. If air conditioner service has been consistent and it has been well maintained, you might be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always variables when it comes to identifying the cost of replacing versus having air conditioner service and repairs done, but there are a number of things to keep in mind when considering the two.
Air conditioner service
- Get a few estimates to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
- Keep track of when your warranty expires and note what it contains so you’re always saving as much as possible.
Air conditioner replacement
- Air conditioner size will be determined by the size of your home.
- Cost will fluctuate depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re wanting.
- The higher the SEER rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.
After you figure out the costs of both routes, keep this helpful tip in mind: if your air conditioner service and repair is going to cost 1/3 or more of the cost of a new air conditioner and your system is between 12-15 years old, air conditioner replacement may be the better long-term choice.
Of course, these are only a small number of the variables, but the experts at Ambient Air are more than happy to help you decide which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes necessary. Give us a call at 520-357-4912 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.