The average AC lifespan is between 15-20 years when the unit is well maintained.
If you’ve got a broken AC, your first instinct will probably be to have it repaired, but that’s not always the best move. When your AC unit is on its last legs, repairing it over and over is just delaying the inevitable. That said, it can be tricky to figure out when it’s better to replace it than keep repairing it.
Today, we’re going to help you out by giving you some pros and cons for air conditioning repair and replacement. Your air conditioner is so important for your comfort and safety, so keep reading and make the best decision on repair vs. replacement.
Pros and Cons of Air Conditioner Repair
There are a variety of common AC issues that could require special attention. It could be that you’ve got a refrigerant leak or that your AC unit is running constantly. Diagnosing these issues on your own can be tricky, which is why it’s so important to have an HVAC contractor come and look at it.
One of the pros of repairing an AC unit instead of replacing it is that it’s faster and cheaper. Something like a refrigerant leak can be diagnosed and fixed in a few hours and a small service fee. In fact, a good HVAC contractor can make quick work of most AC problems.
When problems occur more frequently or your unit is heavily damaged, however, repair costs are going to start adding up. It’s important to have your unit serviced on a regular basis so that you never have to deal with a fully broken AC.
Pros and Cons of Air Conditioner Replacement
If your AC unit is reaching the 15-20 year mark, your HVAC contractor may recommend that you replace it. The main pro of replacing your AC unit is that you’ll have a fully functioning air conditioner for the foreseeable future. This means better indoor air quality and more comfort in your home.
A brand new air conditioner will also be more energy efficient than an older one. If you’ve been noticing your energy bills going up because your AC unit has to work harder to cool the home, replacing it will save you money in the long run.
The only downside of replacing your AC unit is the cost. On average, an AC unit costs around $5,800, so if you haven’t budgeted for this, it can be a daunting expense. It’s not so bad when your old AC unit lasted a full life span, but tougher to swallow when a newer AC unit breaks down.
Getting a Good HVAC Contractor to Help
As you can see, air conditioner repair vs replacement really depends on how old your AC unit is and what’s wrong with it. To find out whether repair or replacement is best for you, you need a good HVAC contractor to help.
For those in the Pittsburgh area, that’s Denillo Heating & Cooling. With 40 years of heating and cooling experience, our team of qualified technicians can help you diagnose and fix your AC problems quickly and affordably. Contact us today to schedule your service.