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You’re at a crossroads. Your air conditioner has been acting up, prompting you to call your local HVAC contractor for service. After diagnosing the issue, your technician gives you two options. You can either repair your current system, or replace it with a new one. Which option should you choose?
Before you make your decision, there are several factors to consider.
According to the Department of Energy, the average system lifespan for an air conditioner in the United States is 15-20 years. But in Florida, system life expectancy can be much lower. Here, we use our air conditioners almost year-round. Plus, the units are exposed to high humidity levels, saltwater and sulfur which take their toll over time. These factors result in an average lifespan in the neighborhood of 10-12 years.
Some systems last longer, others shorter. The longevity of your system can also depend on other factors such as the quality of the original installation and how well the unit was maintained. But the general rule is that if your system is over ten years old, it’s time to give the replacement option some serious consideration.
Is the necessary repair minor, like clearing a clogged drain line or replacing a busted capacitor? Then the cost of the repair alone not likely high enough to make you consider replacing your system. However, if your air conditioner is over ten years old and the estimated repair bill is close to 50% of its value, replacement begins to make more sense.
Another aspect to consider is how often your current system needs repair work done. Has the unit been running without a hitch, or do you find yourself calling for emergency AC repair service every few months? In the latter case, it would be more cost effective to invest in a new system, rather than continuing to throw money into an old, unreliable unit.
Proper maintenance has a direct impact on your air conditioner’s reliability, efficiency and life expectancy. In fact, we’ve observed that 50% of all costly AC problems could be avoided just by keeping up with regular maintenance. If you’ve been faithfully doing the following:
…your AC will operate more efficiently and last longer. But if you’ve neglected regular maintenance, the problems you’re experiencing with your system right now might be a direct result. You may even need to replace the system sooner than would have been necessary had it been properly maintained.
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If you upgrade your fifteen-year-old 12 SEER unit to a 16 SEER2 unit, you’re looking at a potential cooling cost savings of 40% per year*.Do you know your air conditioner’s SEER rating? SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) represents how efficiently your air conditioner operates. The higher the SEER rating, the less energy the system consumes.
Since January 2024, SEER2 has replaced SEER as the rating system for AC energy efficiency. All new air conditioners installed in the Southern United States must have an efficiency rating of at least 14.3 SEER2 (which is the equivalent of 15 SEER in the old rating system).
If you upgrade your fifteen-year-old 12 SEER unit to a 16 SEER2 unit, you’re looking at a potential cooling cost savings of 40% per year*.
In most cases an air conditioner’s operating efficiency declines with age (or due to poor maintenance — see above). So, after fifteen years, your 12 SEER air conditioner might be operating nearer to a 10-SEER level. This means you could save closer to 68% per year on cooling costs by upgrading to a 16 SEER2 system*. Upgrade to a system with an even higher SEER2 rating and your potential savings will increase.
See for yourself – use our SEER Energy Savings Calculator to learn how much you can save by upgrading to a more efficient air conditioner.
And remember, saving energy not only benefits your wallet, but also the environment.
Speaking of the environment, on January 1, 2020, the refrigerant known as R22, HCFC-22 or Freon was officially phased out. This means that both production and import of R-22 is prohibited in the US, making R22 increasingly rarer and more expensive to obtain. The problem is, many old air conditioners still use this obsolete refrigerant. Should your old R22 system develop a refrigerant leak, the only way to recharge it is with recycled R22.
The current standard refrigerant, called R410A or Puron, is more eco-friendly than the ozone-depleting R22. If your system was installed after 2010, chances are you have an R410A system. But if your system is older, it might still be using R22.
When you (or a previous homeowner) had your current AC installed, did you replace either the outdoor or indoor unit separately? This plan may seem logical on the surface – especially when one part of the split system is still functional. It probably even saved some money initially. But replacing only the condenser or only the air handler can result in an equipment mismatch. Like an odd couple, these two units were not made to work together and are sure to cause trouble down the road. In short, a mismatched system can result in reduced operating efficiency and shortened lifespan. It will even void the warranty on the new component.
If your current air conditioner is mismatched, we recommend replacing it with a matched system.
Prior to the incident that lead you to call for AC repair, were you satisfied with your air conditioner’s performance? If your system has been…
…it’s time to consider replacing your unit. Your system might be over- or under-sized or mismatched (see above). Or, you might be a candidate for newer home comfort innovations like a zoning system or variable speed technology.
As we alluded to above, air conditioning technology has advanced in recent years. And depending on your needs and budget, some of these new-fangled innovations might be right up your alley.
For example, two-stage and variable speed technology allows precise temperature and humidity control. Communicating systems continuously monitor your air conditioner’s performance. They can remind you when it’s time to change your air filter or clean the condenser. The system can even notify your chosen HVAC technician if the unit needs service. Also, smart thermostats allow you to control the temperature in your home from your smartphone. Some can even adjust the temperature automatically when you leave and when you return home. Many smart thermostats interact with other home automation devices like Amazon Alexa.
Light sleeper? Recent design innovations have resulted in quieter system operation, so the air conditioner is less likely to wake you during the night as it cycles on and off.
Some of these innovations come with a higher price tag than a traditional single-stage system without the bells and whistles. But you can offset that initial cost with the energy cost savings — and often, better warranties and rebate incentives — that come along with a higher-efficiency system. Which brings us to our next question…
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Many of our customers have found that a new air conditioner can pay for itself over time — thanks to a combination of rebates, warranties, and energy savings.HVAC manufacturers, power companies and even local governments occasionally offer rebates or other incentives toward the purchase of higher efficiency air conditioning equipment. Be sure to ask your technician to make you aware of any programs being offered right now – these may vary from region to region and from company to company. But they can save you anywhere from hundreds to over a thousand dollars on your new air conditioner purchase.
Many of our customers have found that a new air conditioner can pay for itself over time — thanks to a combination of rebates, warranties, and energy savings.
Lastly, are you planning on moving soon? If so, you won’t be around to enjoy the long-term benefits of a new air conditioner. In such a case, as long as the repair is not too extensive and your unit has been reliable overall, you might want to keep your current system running.
However, if you are planning on selling your home, a new air conditioner could increase your home’s marketability.
After answering all of the above questions, we hope that you feel equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
The company is the world’s best air cooled condensing units manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
If decide to repair your current AC system, and you’re looking for a qualified AC company you can trust, feel free to give us a call at (941) 474-3691. We offer 24/7 emergency air conditioning repair service, performed by courteous, factory-trained technicians at competitive rates. Our service area encompasses Sarasota and Charlotte counties in Southwest Florida.
If you determine that a new air conditioner is right for you, call us at (941) 474-3691 for a free, no obligation AC replacement quote. Or, we’ll give you a second opinion on a quote from another company. We are a YORK® Certified Comfort Expert, offering the highest level of service. We will also help you take advantage of current AC rebates and specials.
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*According to the SEER Energy Savings Calculator, this is the estimated savings for a 3-ton air conditioner in the Fort Myers, FL area. Based on 11.86 cents/KWh (average price in Florida) and 3303 yearly cooling hours. (Estimated with weather data from ASHRAE: ©2017 ASHRAE, www.ashrae.org. Used with permission.) The calculator is only intended to give you a rough estimate. The savings are not guaranteed and depend on various factors.
Based on a blog post titled “When Should I Replace My Air Conditioner?”, originally published on January 31, 2013.
Last Updated: July 29, 2024
If you’re seeking a mini-split installer near Portland, OR, there are several questions you should ask them. A mini-split is a popular upgrade and an eco-friendly alternative to traditional central HVAC equipment, but installing one requires many considerations. When you’re planning to update your heating and cooling system, it pays to be informed. Here are 10 questions you should ask any mini-split AC installer before they start the job:
Not all HVAC contractors install mini-splits. And, if a provider has only installed a few systems, they may not have the proper experience. It’s best to hire someone with a few years under their belt and who’s able to explain everything to you in detail. They should also provide a quick, professional estimate based on the needs of your home.
Not all HVAC companies are both bonded and insured. Therefore, it’s important to ask about it if the information isn’t already provided. Being bonded and insured financially protects the company, its employees, and its customers if something goes wrong. Insurance covers the cost of damage or treating injuries, and bonded workers are legitimate professionals who are registered with industry organizations.
This should be one of the first questions you ask, as it can help know if the installer knows their trade. The mini-split AC installer will ask about how you use your home and what level of cooling power you think you need. A load calculation will help them identify the model and size to install. Sizing an AC system isn’t a step you want to skip.
The ability to set up cooling zones is one of the greatest benefits of a mini-split. A professional understands how the type and size of equipment relate to how much cooling you need. Every home is different. The technician should answer this question by considering the square footage of your home, the number of levels it has, and how many people live there.
Multiple indoor units can be connected to an outdoor condenser, but you don’t usually need a mini-split unit for every room. Generally, you’ll need a unit for each living area, in bedrooms, and in areas such as converted basements or garages. Multiple units are also needed if your home has more than one floor. A professional should be able to quickly determine how many units to install based on your home’s layout and the capacity of each air handler.
When you ask the installer what the project will cost, don’t just settle for a number. It’s important to consider the fine details. If necessary, ask the installer to itemize costs and clarify expenses related to the size of the system, labor, taxes, inspections, permits, etc. Installation projects often include additional expenses. To avoid confusion, get it all in writing.
Numerous energy rebates are available in Oregon. Ask your mini-split AC installer if you qualify for a rebate from the manufacturer, a power company, or other sources. At Sky Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ll help you take advantage of rebates. We can also connect you with special financing upon approved credit.
Removing your old system and installing a mini-split requires several steps, and unforeseen circumstances can pop up along the way. However, an experienced installer should still be able to provide a timeline.
Another important question is how efficient your new system will be. The system’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) compares its cooling output to the energy used to measure efficiency. A contractor should help you compare units based on their SEER ratings. They should also evaluate your home to identify specific areas for improvement, such as adding insulation and sealing drafts.
A mini-split can save on energy costs but is an investment you want to protect. You never know when something might go wrong. Ask the mini-split AC installer about the warranty that comes with the system. They should know about the manufacturer’s parts and labor warranty and how long it’s good for.
If you’re looking to upgrade to a ductless mini-split system, we can help you see the many benefits of this energy-efficient cooling option. Mini-splits are more compact, faster to install, and provide better temperature control than traditional forced-air systems. Our team can help set up zoning and help you benefit from wireless remote control and programmable operation. We also install ENERGY STAR-rated equipment, so you see the most energy savings. To have more questions answered and schedule service by mini-split installers near Portland, call (503) 647-4330.
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