Air Conditioner Service or Air Conditioner Replacement: What to Consider

September 11, 2015

Mild weather is becoming a realistic possibility in Safford, which means one thing: it’s time to set up your air conditioner service. However, it may not be that straightforward if your system is climbing up there in age and has been causing difficulties over the last few years.

Air conditioner replacement is an investment in your home, like many other home improvement projects are. So how do you know if you should buy that new air conditioner now or simply get your annual air conditioner service done?

At B&D Air Conditioning, we know that it can be a tough decision to make, so here are a few pointers to keep in mind if you’re not sure which way to choose.

1. Air Conditioner Age

This is more than likely the biggest factor in to your decision, as air conditioner technology has improved quite a few things, from energy efficiency to the amount of noise it gives off. If your system is more than 12 years old, it may not make sense to put a lot of money in to repairs when you could be applying that money towards a new system.

However, the average 12-15 year lifecycle of an air conditioner doesn’t mean it can’t operate well beyond that. If air conditioner service has been routine and it has been well maintained, you may 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 identifying the cost of replacing versus having air conditioner service and repairs done, but there are a number of things to keep in mind when considering the two.

Air conditioner service

  • Get a couple estimates to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
  • Keep track of when your warranty expires and note what it covers so you’re always saving as much as possible.

Air conditioner replacement

  • Air conditioner size will be figured out by the size of your home.
  • Cost will fluctuate depending on the level of energy efficiency you’re searching for.
  • The higher the SEER rating, the greater the chance for energy savings.

After you calaculate the costs of both routes, 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 option.

Of course, these are only a small number of the variables, but the experts at B&D Air Conditioning are more than happy to help you choose which air conditioner is right when replacement becomes a necessity. Give us a call at 928-432-6018 to find out what makes sense for both you and your budget.