Should I Repair or Replace My AC?

by Kevin Smith Author

It's a terrible feeling when your air conditioning in Conyers, GA, starts to have problems. It can be difficult to know whether you should have the AC repaired, or if it's time to replace the entire unit. There are a few factors to consider when making this important decision, so be sure to think about these things when determining the best course of action.

Repair Frequency

Occasional repairs on any air conditioner are normal so before you decide to replace your AC unit, consider how often you actually need repairs. If you only have to call for repairs once a year or less, or even a couple times a season, it may not necessarily be in your best interest to replace the system. However, if you're experiencing breakdowns multiple times during the peak season you may want to consider replacement, but be sure to consider additional factors first as well.

Cost of Repairs

It's also important to consider the cost of repairs versus replacement costs. While small, inexpensive repairs may not seem like a big deal at the time, they can begin to add up. If your AC currently needs to be repaired, get a full quote on what the repairs will cost and compare that to the cost of installing a new unit. It may be wise financially to replace the unit rather than continue paying for expensive (and increasingly frequent) repairs. Consumer Reports recommends replacing a product when the repairs are more than half of the cost of a new product.

Age of Unit

Air conditioners generally last 10-12 years. If your AC is this old it's likely that you've noticed other issues as well. Although an AC unit can last longer, it's usually a good idea to replace it at this age if you're noticing other signs that it's on its way out.

Energy Efficiency

Many times when your AC needs frequent repairs you'll notice higher utility bills at the same time. If this is true for you and your unit has a lower SEER rating you'll save money on both repairs and utility costs by replacing your current AC unit with a newer, more energy efficient model. Fortunately, when you do replace your air conditioning in Conyers, GA, there are often rebates and tax credits you can claim to help offset the cost of replacing your air conditioner.