When should I replace my A/C?

via houselogic.com

 

Having trouble staying cool this summer? It may be time for a new A/C! Due to recent updates in the manufacture of air conditioning units, new systems may use less than half the electricity of old A/C units and will be more effective at cooling you off. According to a recent HouseLogic article, purchasing a new A/C may be more cost effective than repairing your old one. In order to determine if purchasing a new system is the right decision for your home, House Logic recommends you follow these steps:

Check your current A/C's efficiency
Units that are just 8-10 years old might use up to twice the electricity that a new unit would use. By purchasing a new A/C with more efficient energy standards, you could cut your consumption (and your bills!) by 30%. HouseLogic recommends consulting your installer to see if a new unit is worth the cost.

Investigate the ductwork
Your old A/C may only be part of your cooling problems. Your home's ductwork may leak 10-30% of its air before it reaches you. Have a technician run tests to insure that your ducts aren't the problem before deciding to purchase a new A/C unit.

Consider your home's structure
A poorly insulated house could account for your A/C's ineffectiveness. A contractor may be able to seal any cracks or improve your home's insulation. This fix may be enough to improve your old system's effectiveness and keep you cool for a few more years.

If you have considered these issues, and decided that purchasing a new unit is for you, make sure that your new system is the correct size for your home. Oversized systems cost more, use more electricity, and may still not be effective at cooling your home. Consult a trusted contractor to ensure you purchase a system that's right for you. And remember...