Is It Time to Say Goodbye to Your Air Conditioner?
Learn when to replace your air conditioner, what to weigh besides the repair bill, and why an older R-22 system is worth planning around.
As a general guideline, many air conditioners start nearing the end of their useful life somewhere around 10 to 15 years old. Even if your system is younger, or you are not sure of its age, there are other signs that it may be time to plan for a replacement. If you notice any of the following, it is worth talking with an HVAC contractor.
Weigh More Than One Number
Quick formulas that multiply a system's age by the repair cost are easy to remember, but they leave out most of what matters: the system's condition and repair history, how well it keeps your home comfortable, whether it was sized correctly, whether parts are still available and how long you plan to stay. Gibson quotes repairs at a flat rate before any work starts, so you can weigh the repair against the system's overall condition. For the full framework, see our guide Should I repair or replace my HVAC system?
Your Current AC Unit Uses R-22 Refrigerant
Even if your AC seems to be running well, it makes sense to plan ahead if the system uses R-22 refrigerant.
R-22 was phased out because of its environmental impact, and new R-22 is no longer produced in the United States. Newer systems use different refrigerants. Because remaining supplies are limited, recharging an older R-22 system after a leak can be expensive, which often tips the decision toward replacement.
You Have Rising Energy Usage
As an air conditioner ages, wear and tear force it to use more energy to deliver the same comfort. A new, correctly sized system can help you spend less on monthly cooling costs.
Honest Repair-or-Replace Advice
Gibson Home Services provides air conditioning maintenance, repair and replacement for homeowners in Cherry Hill, Moorestown and across Burlington County. We diagnose first, give you straightforward repair-versus-replace advice, and if replacement makes sense, we size the new system with a load calculation and offer good, better and best equipment options. Financing is available. Call (856) 220-4158 or schedule service online.
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