Should I Replace My Air Conditioner or Repair It? Ask the Experts.
One thing that a new homeowner quickly discovers is that all appliances and systems need to be maintained and eventually replaced over time. Inevitably, major items will break down, and it is usually when you need them the most. As we get into the dog days of summer, many Portland homeowners may find that their air conditioning systems are simply not up to snuff for the season.
If you face the question of whether to repair or replace your air conditioning system, you may appreciate some tips from the experts. Our trained professionals at Sun Glow Heating & Cooling have years of experience in evaluating air conditioning systems. We want to put that knowledge to use and help you make the best decision for your home and family. Here are five tips from our heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) experts to consider:
Expert Tip 1: Consider the Age of the Air Conditioning System
The average age for most modern air conditioning systems is roughly 10 to 15 years depending on where you live and usage. However, if you use your air conditioning system infrequently and are very diligent about regular maintenance, it’s very likely that your air conditioning system will last much longer than that. On the other hand, if you run your air conditioning system nearly around-the-clock during the summertime and you are more lax about regular maintenance, you may find that you shorten the life span of your air conditioning unit significantly. The bottom line is that the age of your air conditioner is simply one factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your system.
Expert Tip 2: Watch Your Air Quality and Humidity Levels
Although most Oregon homeowners know that air conditioners work by removing the heat from inside your home, some do not realize air conditioners also contribute to good indoor air quality and ideal humidity levels. An older air conditioning unit that is experiencing problems may not be doing these jobs as well as they should. If you find that your home is experiencing air quality issues and excess humidity, your air conditioner may be responsible. Talk with one of our team members about the best ways to remedy these issues. A repair may be needed, or in some cases, a replacement.
Expert Tip 3: Take a Look at Your Energy Bills
If nothing significant has changed in your home and your utility company has not raised rates recently, you should not see dramatic fluctuations in your energy bills. If you suddenly notice your energy bills are significantly higher, it may indicate your air conditioner is not working as efficiently as it used to. You might not realize new air conditioning systems run much more efficiently than older units, which will allow you to recoup some of the investment through lower utility bills. According to the US Department of Energy, high efficiency air conditioners can save a homeowner between 20 percent and 40 percent on their utility bills.
Expert Tip 4: Be Observant
Oftentimes, when air conditioning systems begin to experience problems, you will notice some symptoms or changes in the equipment’s behavior. For example, you may hear your unit making odd sounds or you may even detect unusual smells. If anything seems out of the ordinary, contact our HVAC professionals for an evaluation. Depending on the cause of the issue, you may need to repair or replace your unit.
Expert Tip 5: Ask the Professionals
The bottom line is that there are times when you need to consult a professional HVAC company. At Sun Glow, our technicians are not only trained in how the equipment should properly function but have years of experience evaluating many different air conditioning systems and cooling situations. We can often give you the best advice on whether to repair or replace your air conditioning system. You can trust us to understand your cooling needs as well as respect your budget and time frame. With our help, you will be able to find the best solution for your home and family.
Contact our team at Sun Glow in Portland, OR, for this advice. We’d be happy to schedule an appointment to discuss your specific cooling situation today. We want to help you and your family stay cool and comfortable this summer. Contact us online or call at 503-253-7789.