As temperatures continue to rise, your household will rely on your air conditioning unit more and more. If it stops producing the cool air you desire—or shows some other sign of malfunction—your first instinct is likely to arrange for AC repair. However, in some circumstances, even when a repair is possible, a replacement is more cost-effective. The guide below explores some of these situations and what solution is best.

How to Tell You Need Air Conditioner Service

1. Outdated Equipment

Most air conditioners have a life span of 15 to 20 years. Therefore, if yours is less than 10 years old and malfunctioning, an AC repair technician can likely replace the broken part or tighten the loose components easily, giving you another decade of use out of that system.

If your AC is more than 10 years old, an HVAC contractor can assess the condition. If the cost of the repairs is 50% the value of the system, they will likely recommend a replacement instead. At that point, it is better to invest in a new unit that will serve your house for longer than to fix the aging machine.

2. Unreliable Performance

In addition to weighing the cost of repairs, consider the frequency. If your air conditioning unit breaks down often, leaving your family sweating in the summer heat, schedule a replacement.

This can also be a worthwhile investment if you notice some rooms are warmer than others. This may be because the unit is the wrong size for your house or has lost cooling power over the years.

3. Rising Energy Costs

If your utility bills have been rising, call an HVAC contractor for AC repair. It is possible that a clogged filter, leak in the system or malfunctioning part is affecting unit efficiency.

However, if it is due to normal system wear instead, they may recommend a replacement. Newer models are built to use less energy to achieve the desired temperatures. Therefore, replacing the unit could ultimately save you money on your utility bills.

4. Poor Air Quality

Most HVAC systems require homeowners to replace the air filter every month to three months. Otherwise, the unit gets clogged with pollen, animal hair, and other particulates that obstruct airflow and can cause your family to experience runny noses or itchy eyes.

Modern systems are built with better air filtration systems so that not only will the unit run more efficiently, but it will make the air inside your house easier to breathe. Therefore, if you have someone in the household with a respiratory condition, such as asthma, consider upgrading.

Whether you need air conditioning repair or replacement, trust the professionals at Wilkes Plumbing & Heating. Since 1912, the company has been a reliable resource for heating, cooling, and plumbing service. Located in Huron, OH, and serving Erie County, their licensed team can help with residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Call (419) 433-2325 for an appointment. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings.