Mild weather is becoming a real possibility in Laguna Niguel, which means one thing: it’s time to arrange for your air conditioner service. However, it’s realistic that it may not be that straightforward if your system is beginning to get up there in age and has been causing difficulties over the last few years.
Air conditioner replacement is an investment in your home, like nearly all other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should get that new air conditioner now or simply get your annual air conditioner service handled?
At Ocean Air Conditioning and Heating , we know that it can be a tough decision to make, so here are a few tidbits to keep in mind if you’re not sure which route to choose.
1. Air Conditioner Age
This is most likely 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 gives off. 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 putting that money towards a new system.
However, the normal 12-15 year lifetime of an air conditioner doesn’t mean it can’t work well beyond that. If air conditioner service has been consistent and it has been properly maintained, you could be able to go beyond that 12-15 year average.
2. Cost of replacing vs. servicing/repairing
There are always unknowns when it comes to figuring out the cost of replacing versus having air conditioner service and repairs done, but there are a number of things to keep in mind when comparing the two.
Air conditioner service
- Get a few estimates to make certain you’re getting the best deal.
- Keep track of when your warranty expires and note what it includes 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 looking for.
- The higher the SEER rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.
After you determine the costs of both options, 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 couple of the variables, but the pros at Ocean Air Conditioning and Heating are more than happy to help you choose which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes necessary. Give us a call at 949-317-4175 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.