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Should You Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner? There are 3 Main Factors to Consider
When your air conditioner stops working, your main question should be whether to repair the unit or replace it. Repairing the unit will almost definitely cost less now, but it may be more cost effective in the long run to replace it. The three main factors to consider are your air conditioner’s life expectancy, energy efficiency, and overall condition.
Life Expectancy
The typical air conditioner only lasts about 12 to 15 years. Although you can repair air conditioner units that are reaching the end of their life expectancy, the parts may be difficult to find and the repairs might only help you get another year or two out of the unit.
Energy Efficiency
Newer air conditioners are more energy efficient than older ones, and you can save yourself a lot of money with a new unit. The main number you want to be looking for is the S.E.E.R. (seasonal energy efficiency ratio), which is a measure of your air conditioners energy efficiency. Today’s minimum efficiency level is 13 SEER Units made just 7-8 yrs. ago may have a 10 SEER rating. If you have an air conditioner with a low S.E.E.R., it may be more cost effective in the long run to replace it with a newer and more energy efficient unit.
Overall Condition
Regardless of your air conditioner’s age and energy efficiency, you should also consider its condition. If you have a unit that has been plagued with mechanical issues and breakdowns, you may want to replace it even if it is relatively new and energy efficient. On the other hand, a high quality unit from a reputable brand may last a long time with only minor repairs.
Making Your Decision
Rather than suffering through a hot summer with a broken air conditioner, get a reputable company in the Denver metro area to give you quotes on repair and replacement costs for your air conditioner and talk you through the options. In our experience, it is often best to go ahead and replace air conditioner units that have failed in even one of the three criteria. You can get a unit now to take advantage of this year’s prices and get the rebates that may run out before next summer rolls around.
