Can your air conditioner make it through another summer or is it time to replace it?

Although the first official day of summer is still over two months away, the warm weather has already started to make itself known here in West Chester. The last thing anyone wants is to be stuck in the heat without a working air conditioner, so before the heat really starts to set in, it’s important to get your air conditioner replaced if necessary. But how do you know if you should replace your air conditioner? Here is a list of tips from our HVAC contractors of signs that it’s time to replace your air conditioner:

#1. Your air conditioner is 10 or more years old.

Typically, you’ll get anywhere from 10 to 15 years of use out of your air conditioner, depending on how well you take care of it. So, if your air conditioner has reached that 10-year mark, and you are finding yourself fixing it often, it’s probably time to get it replaced. The best part about replacing such an old air conditioner is that your newer model will be a lot more efficient than your older model, so you’ll be able to enjoy energy savings on a monthly basis.

#2. Your air conditioner hasn’t been running efficiently.

Have you noticed an increase in your energy bills when you run your air conditioner? If so, check the SEER rating on your air conditioner, and if it’s lower than 12, you’re probably spending an excessive amount to operate it. Today, manufacturers are required to maintain a minimum SEER rating of 13, and replacing your inefficient model with a newer one that has a higher SEER rating can make a difference in your energy bills.

#3. Your air conditioner keeps breaking down.

Does it feel like your air conditioner breaks down constantly? Have you put your HVAC contractor on speed dial because of how often you have to get air conditioning repairs? If so, you’d probably save more money by simply replacing your air conditioner. Frequent air conditioning repairs can get pricey over time, and if your system is constantly breaking down, your best bet is probably to replace it.

#4. Your air conditioner is in need of a pricey repair.

Although in most cases, if your air conditioner isn’t super old, it’s typically a much better option to get repairs done when necessary, rather than just replacing it. However, when repairs get overly pricey, it’s always smart to weigh them against the cost of a new system, particularly if your air conditioner is exhibiting any of the other signs on this list.

#5. Your home is uncomfortable.

Does your home feel too warm, regardless of what temperature you set the thermostat on? If your air conditioner just isn’t doing its job, there could be multiple issues holding it back, such as the age of your air conditioner or if it’s the right size for your home. But no matter the reason, you need to replace it with a system that will actually keep your home comfortable.

Is it time to replace your air conditioner in West Chester? Contact the experts at Tri-Elite Advisors today.