Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, no matter how well you take care of it. Undoubtedly, HVAC equipment is no exception to this rule. The longest the average air conditioning unit will last is 15 to 20 years. Therefore, at some point, you can expect to have to replace your AC unit. Here are a few tips that will help you determine the right time to buy a new AC unit.

Consider the Age of the AC Unit

One factor that you should consider is the age of the AC unit. Many HVAC technicians swear by the 5,000 rule. Essentially, homeowners should multiply the age of their air conditioner by the repair cost. If you do this and the total amount exceeds $5,000, you should replace the air conditioner rather than have it repaired. For example, if your air conditioning unit is 10-years-old and will cost $400 to repair, the product of the age of the unit and the repair cost is $4,000. Therefore, it would be okay to repair this AC unit.

Consider Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is another factor that you should consider. Thanks to recent advances in the HVAC industry, the energy efficiency of HVAC equipment has increased substantially. If your AC unit is more than a decade old, Energy Star recommends that you replace it with a more energy-efficient unit. While the upfront cost of an energy efficient AC unit may be high, you will save more money in the long run thanks to lower utility bills.

If your AC unit has broken down, you may be wondering whether you should have it repaired or replaced. While such a decision may be difficult to make, as long as you consider the factors discussed above, you will make a decision that is suitable for your circumstances.

If you need any air conditioning service for healthy indoor air quality, contact the experts at ACTexas - ACT Air Conditioning Texas today!