If your air conditioning system is not working as it should, then you need to work out whether you should have it repaired or replace it with a new unit. This decision isn't always straightforward. Here are a few factors that can help you make the right choice.
1. The Nature of the Fault
First of all, you need to find out what is wrong with the air conditioning system. Unless you have some expertise in this area, the best way to do this is to call an HVAC service. They can send someone out to look at your air conditioner and work out which component is malfunctioning.
This information is key to deciding whether to repair or replace. If a core part of the air conditioner, such as the compressor, has broken, then a repair can cost nearly as much as replacing the entire system. On the other hand, a simple electrical fault, clogged filter, torn ductwork, or broken fan can be repaired relatively quickly and inexpensively.
2. The Age of The Air Conditioner
The older the air conditioning system, the more likely it is that replacing it is the best option. An older system is more likely to break down again after a repair, whereas a newer system that has a single part replaced could provide many years of useful service.
Older air conditioning systems are also less efficient than modern ones. Replacing your old system with an up-to-date model could allow you to use less energy to achieve the same level of cooling that you currently enjoy, leading to lower household bills.
3. How Your Air Conditioner Usually Performs
If you are generally happy with the way your air conditioning system normally works, it is probably worth repairing it if possible. On the other hand, if your air conditioner is always causing you problems, you might find it less stressful to replace it with a newer, more reliable model.
4. Professional Advice
When it comes to the decision between air conditioning repair and replacement, HVAC professionals often know best. When an air conditioning technician comes to diagnose the problem with your unit, ask their advice over whether a replacement or a repair is the most worthwhile. A good HVAC service company will be happy to explain the relative costs of each option and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of repair versus replacement. If you still can't decide, don't hesitate to get a second opinion.
For more information, reach out to a local air conditioning repair and replacement service.
