Every family has had that conversation about whether to roll the dice on the old AC unit that’s surpassed its already long lifespan with repairs, or to tighten the belt and pay for a replacement. Well, we’re here to make that conversation a little easier, because figuring out if its worth it to replace your air conditioner is better than not having one when you need it the most.
Luckily, there are telltale signs when your AC unit is about to go, and that knowledge can help you make a faster, more affordable decision about what to do. After contacting a professional about air conditioning replacement in Bergen County, NJ, and with the right amount of preparation, the transition from an old AC unit to a new, quality system could be painless.
So how can you tell if your AC is on its last legs?
How to Tell When Your Air Conditioner Has Got to Go
There are various red flags that repair might not be enough. When repairs are tallying up to be half as expensive as a brand new AC unit, it’s time to make an upgrade. These repair needs can include:
- Refrigerant Leaks. Refrigerant leaks can be hard to deal with. They’re bad for the environment and require a trained technician to fix. If you’re constantly seeing the signs of refrigerant leaks, which includes a loss of cooling possibly accompanied by a “hissing” or “bubbling” sound, you might want to consider a new unit.
- Compressor or Fan Failure. Just like any electronic appliance, wires and terminals wear out over time and can cause more problems than they’re worth.
- Higher Energy Bills. Compare your energy bills to what you paid this time last year, or what your neighbors are paying. Are you paying more for the same amount of air conditioning? This could be a clear sign that it’s time to upgrade to a more efficient HVAC system.
Every few years there are increasingly efficient and longer-lasting air conditioners being developed, so it’s never a bad idea to invest in a better unit, particularly if your system is aging, which is the last and perhaps biggest sign that it’s time for an upgrade. Properly installed and well-maintained air conditioners are designed to last 10-15 years. If yours is older than this, it’s absolutely worth at least considering an upgrade.
But at What Cost?
We won’t beat around the bush—new HVAC systems can be expensive. However, after speaking to one of our technicians at DB Heating & Cooling, you’ll find that there are plenty of financing options when it comes to an expensive upgrade to an air conditioning system.
Also, make sure you check to see if you’re qualified for a federal tax credit. More efficient and environmentally friendly air conditioner systems often yield a tax credit, which is something to keep in mind if you’re budgeting. Manufacturers sometimes include a rebate to help ease the cost of a newer, higher quality HVAC system as well.
Don’t wait until it’s too late.
DB Heating & Cooling, Inc serves the heating and cooling needs of customers throughout Rockland County, NY as well as Bergen County, NJ and surrounding communities. You can count on us for expert services. Contact us today!