Having a malfunctioning air conditioner in the middle of summer can be inconvenient, not to mention uncomfortable. Ideally, you want to address any issues with your AC before the hot weather arrives, but would the problems be better solved by repairs or a replacement? The experts at Absolute Comfort Heating And Air Conditioning in Lincoln, NE, recommend asking yourself the following questions to decide if you should replace your air conditioner.

3 Questions to Help You Determine if You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

1. How Old Is Your Current One?

If your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you should consider looking for a replacement. An old system can have a host of underlying problems that may cost more to repair than to replace. Some experts swear by the “5,000 Rule,” in which you multiply the age of your air conditioner by the cost of the repairs. If the result exceeds $5,000, it’s time to get a new unit.

2. How Important Is Energy Efficiency?

Even if your air conditioner is not that old, it may not be as energy efficient as you would like. Check to see if the unit has an Energy Star® logo. If it doesn’t, you may want to consider replacing it. The EPA allows products to display the logo if they are at least 10% above the standard set by the federal government for energy efficiency. AC units that carry the logo must also indicate to consumers the length of time it will take to recover their initial investment. So while a brand-new air conditioner might cost you more initially, you can save a lot of money on energy costs in the long run. 

3. Is Your AC the Right Size?

A new air conditioner that is energy efficient may still need to be replaced if the unit isn’t the right size for the space it is supposed to keep cool. If the AC is too big, it could make the space unbearably cold. One that’s too small will not be able to cool down the space effectively. Make sure you have the right size for the square footage of the room. If you don’t, you may want to replace the air conditioner you have.

If it’s time to invest in a new air conditioner, turn to the reliable HVAC specialists from Absolute Comfort Heating And Air Conditioning by calling (402) 430-3959 today. You can also visit their website to learn more about the other HVAC services they offer.