In the Texas Heat, air conditioning isn’t just a luxury – it’s essential! In Forney, TX, and the surrounding communities, we rely on our AC units to keep on trucking through the blistering summer months, and even the hot spring and dry fall. Our AC’s are putting in overtime year after year, and it’s critical to keep them operating in prime condition. So when your unit starts acting up before summer is even in full swing, do you play it safe and repair it, or pull the trigger to have it replaced?
When to Replace Your AC Unit
If Your Unit is Over 15 Years Old
The age of your unit is a huge determining factor in the repair vs. replace debate. The average lifespan for an air conditioner is between 10 and 15 years, so if your unit is older than a JV football squad, it may be time for a new one. Sure, you could repair it, but it won’t be much longer until it reaches the end of its lifespan.
If Your Energy Bills Keep Going Up
Your utility company hasn’t raised its rates, but your bill keeps climbing higher every month. Why? It could be because your AC is starting to show signs of aging, or maybe this unit came with the house, and it’s not the best quality. Regardless, inflated bills are a sign of inefficiency in your unit. If monthly costs are adding up, thanks to your heating and cooling, it may be time to replace your unit.
If You’ve Repaired the Unit Already
Every unit needs a tune-up once in a while, but if your air conditioner has needed repairs two times or more in the last year, consider replacing it entirely. Why keep throwing money at it when you could invest the same cash in a brand new system that will last for years?
When to Repair Your AC Unit
If Your Unit is Less than 10 Years Old
I know it seems obvious based on what you read earlier, but it needs to be said! Even if your unit is having a major crisis (damage, blown a fuse, etc.), it’s usually not worth replacing it if it’s less than ten years old. Find a trusted maintenance specialist to inspect your AC unit, and if he tells you to replace the whole thing – get a second opinion.
If You Haven’t Had a Recent Ductwork Inspection
It’s a sad fact that ductwork leaks out about 20–30% of its air before it ever reaches the rooms of your house. That means you’re losing 20–30% of the cool air you’re paying for! If your bills are slowly getting higher, but your AC unit is still young, it could be your ductwork doing the damage. An AC specialist can inspect them and seal any holes that are excessively leaking.
At the end of the day, a trusted air conditioning service company can help you determine the best course of action for you and your budget. Absolute Air has been a leader in AC replacement and AC repair in Forney, TX, for over ten years. We would love to add you to the Absolute Air family! Give us a call at (972) 932-5373, or visit absoluteair.net to schedule your free estimate.