It can be difficult to decide the right time to replace the air conditioner. It’s important to have an efficient and effective cooling system that provides reliability. Even with yearly professional maintenance, equipment eventually wears out. While it might continue to operate, the air conditioner isn’t necessarily worth keeping. At some point, the smarter decision is an upgrade into a newer, more energy efficient alternative. It’s important to be aware of indications that a cooling system is reaching the end of its service life. The age of the air conditioner makes a difference on whether repair or replace is the right decision. With proper maintenance, cooling systems typically last fifteen to twenty years. Anytime after fifteen years, repairs are no longer cost-effective. Even minor service requirements quickly add up. Frequent breakdowns or any repair that is comparable to a large percentage of the installation cost of a new system are good reasons to invest into a new system that is covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. As a system ages, it loses efficiency. Higher energy bills are an indication that the equipment is no longer functioning as it should. Today’s air conditioners achieve up to 26 SEER ratings, making them extremely energy efficient. Options such as adaptable-speed technology and zone control not only help to trim costs but reduce impact on the environment. If the existing system still uses R 22 Freon, it isn’t worth keeping. The federal government is phasing out this type of refrigerant due to its ozone depleting properties. New air conditioners now are required to use Puron, a more environmentally friendly alternative. Freon is now expensive and difficult to find. Older systems that develop a refrigerant leak are impossible to fix. Comfort is obviously the reason behind installing an air conditioner. When the cooling unit fails to keep up with demand, a new system makes sense.
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