When to Get a New AC Unit: 4 Key Signs

If you’re having trouble with your home AC not working properly, it can be difficult to decide when to replace it. On top of when to get a new AC unit, people often ask follow-up questions like “How much does it cost to get a new AC unit installed?” and “Will a new AC unit cool my house better?”. Let this guide help you determine whether or not it’s time to upgrade.

When to Get a New AC Unit: 4 Key Signs

1. It’s reaching the end of its projected lifespan
2. The cost to repair is too close to a replacement cost
3. It requires older parts that are hard to find
4. The unit uses an outdated refrigerant

1. Your Air Conditioning Unit is Older

Firstly, consider how close your air conditioning is to its projected lifespan. You can expect a good home AC unit to last 10 – 15 years. However, it won’t last that long with neglected maintenance and rough weather.

If your AC unit isn’t regularly cleaned, dirt and grime can build up, which makes the machine work harder and wear out faster. On top of this, that buildup compromises your air quality and causes bad smells to come out of your unit.

Additionally, the lifespan of a centralized air conditioner could shorten if it is undersized for the area it’s cooling. If the AC’s capacity is too small, it will run constantly to try to keep the space to the set temperature, leading parts to be worn out quicker.

If your unit is not as old but you haven’t maintained it regularly, it might be time to start fresh and take care of a new unit so that any problems don’t get worse. A unit that’s older will likely keep decreasing in efficiency, so that’s also a case for an upgrade.

2. How Much Does it Cost to Get a New AC Unit Installed vs. Cost of Repair?

If your unit has lasted at least 75% of the projected lifespan, and you’re looking at a repair that would cost more than one-third of the replacement cost, it’d be smart to consider a replacement. On the flip side, it’s worth it to get the fixes for a newer unit that’s cheaper to repair. That is why it’s important to know the repair and replacement costs when trying to decide.

When the AC compressor fails, or other major repairs are needed, it could be time for a replacement. The compressor is the most expensive part when broken to replace in any unit. A broken compressor most likely means that there are more issues with your home AC. Leaks are a sign that the coils are wearing out, and when one leak occurs there are likely more leaks to follow.

So how much does it cost to get a new AC unit installed? Often, people are unsure about replacements because they can get pricey. Luckily, many companies offer free estimates, so you can pencil it into your budget and compare costs.

Although the initial cost can feel like a lot, a new AC unit can cut your cooling energy costs by 20-40%. Therefore, an energy efficient AC unit will save you money in the long run.

3. The Parts Have Limited Availability

In some older models, replacement parts may be hard to find, especially parts used in technology that’s outdated. It is important to keep track of the history of replacements and parts used in your AC unit. A replacement part may make sense once, but if the part fails again and/or becomes more of a challenge to find, you won’t want to waste your time on useless repairs.

4. The Unit Uses an Outdated Refrigerant

If the home AC unit was installed before 2010, it’s likely cooled with R22 refrigerant, also known as Freon. This chemical is being phased out by federal EPA regulations. As a result, R22 prices have risen dramatically, and maintaining an R22 air conditioner will only become more of an expensive hassle over time. This makes the choice easier: if you’re looking at a repair on a pre-2010 air conditioner, replace it with a new model that uses a modern refrigerant.

Will a New AC Unit Cool My House Better?

A new AC unit will be more energy efficient and perform better than an old one. They’ll often have a more visually pleasing design, blend into your rooms better, and operate quieter.

However, it’s important you choose the right AC for you. An AC can be new, but not designed for the specific size of your place. So, how do you find out what’s best for you?

How To Choose The Best AC Unit For Your Needs

Yes, it’s smart to choose a highly rated brand. However, the brand is not the only criteria to be looking at when searching for a home AC system.

Picking the right system type for your home will depend on several things. Firstly, will it or will it not tie in with your building’s existing system, if you live in an apartment? Or do you have existing ductwork (for a standalone residence)? Secondly, where do you have space to install your unit?

Air conditioner prices vary based on energy efficiency and extra features. You’ll want to take into consideration the size of your home so you get the best air conditioner to meet your needs. The layout of your ductwork and where you place the unit makes a difference as well.

Overall, finding a new system can be a daunting task. The highly trained staff of HVAC technicians at Live Free Heating & Cooling provide the information needed to create the system they would be proud to have in their own homes. Contact Live Free Heating & Cooling today to get a free estimate on your new installation.