Struggling to make a choice between a repair or a replacement for your air conditioner? Read on.
Let’s be honest: Chico, CA can get hot. With average summer temperatures hitting near 100° F having an air conditioner that runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible is chock full of benefits.
Although there are tried and true methods of maintenance to make your HVAC unit last, many homeowners inevitably have to face the decision between repairing or replacing their air conditioner. The problem is, how do you know which is the right solution?
Well, let’s start by taking a look at a few factors that should help you decide between a repair or a replacement of your air conditioner.
Age and Condition:
The first thing you have to evaluate in order to make the decision between a repair or a replacement is the age and condition of said unit. The average lifespan of an AC is about 10 to 15 years, and if your unit is fast approaching or past that mark, is needing numerous repairs or wasn’t working before the services were rendered, it could cost you more money to get your unit back to its original condition versus just replacing it with a new, more efficient model.
Energy Efficiency:
Why does energy efficiency matter? In 2024, California’s electricity rates have continued to climb, with the average price reaching $0.48 cents per kWh. Projected energy costs will increase, suggesting that investing in a new AC unit with the best energy efficiency rating available will pay off in the long run. That’s because newer systems have higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios) making them more energy efficient and using less energy to cool your home.
Cost of Repairs versus Cost of Replacement:
When is it cheaper to repair an AC system than to replace it? When a repair job is cheaper than half the cost of a brand new unit. Many AC repairs around Chico flow from the same few issues: faulty capacitors, basic electrical problems, a faulty thermostat. There are a variety of minor repairs that can quickly fix and sustain your unit for years to come. However, if you have minor repairs that are adding up quickly in cost but not solving the problem and a replacement is an option, then our advice is go for the new unit.When you have equipment that’s 15 years or older and it’s no longer a working unit, then a replacement might be your least expensive option
Comfort and Performance:
Current, old, it doesn’t matter. Sometimes there is nothing more frustrating than your AC breaking down at the most inopportune time–like during a heat wave. As a homeowner, you also have the opportunity to improve comfort in your home. If your current unit is struggling to keep up with the cooling duties in your home or is breaking down during the hottest days of the year, it might be time to invest in a replacement.
Financial Incentives and Rebates:
There are several local and federal financial incentives and rebates available for upgrading to more energy efficient HVAC systems. These incentives can offset the initial cost of a new AC unit and make replacement a more attractive option. Check with local utility companies and government agencies for available incentives, or reach out to Royal Aire for more information.
Consulting with HVAC Professionals
Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace your AC unit should be based on a thorough assessment of your specific situation. Consulting with HVAC professionals in Chico, CA, such as Royal Aire, can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your home’s needs. A professional assessment will consider factors such as your home’s size, insulation, ductwork, and cooling requirements.By weighing these factors carefully, you can make a well-informed decision that ensures optimal comfort, energy efficiency, and cost savings for years to come.
