When faced with the decision to repair or replace your current cooling system, do you find it difficult to decide which one to choose? Many homeowners wonder if they should take the plunge and invest in a newer system or repair the old one and hope it lasts a few more years. Here are a few questions to ask yourself that will help you decide between AC repair and replacement in Austin.

Quick Quiz

Is your system 10 or more years old? The average cooling system is designed to last about 15 years, so one that is 10 years old or more is already past its prime and repairing it would probably just be a waste of money.

Has it needed multiple repairs? Numerous repairs are a sign that it is time to replace your current system. If you add up the total of all the repair bills you’ve paid you probably could have bought a new system for the same price. Repairing a system over and over can run into a lot of money spent and may not be cost-effective in the long-term.

Do you have problems with mold? Maybe you haven’t thought about it but one of the jobs your air conditioner does it to remove humidity from the air. If you are having issues with mold then it is not doing its job very well. Mold growth is caused by a damp environment which is a perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria. This is a health concern for young children and older people, especially those with asthma or other breathing problems.

Are some rooms cooler than others? If you have some rooms that are warmer than others, look for a logical reason for it. If there is none, your system is working but not to the best of its ability to maintain a consistent temperature.

Will this be your family home for more than 5 years? If you plan to stay in this home for 5 years or more you will benefit more from replacing your current system. The money you save on utility expenses by upgrading to a more efficient system will help defray some of the cost of replacement. You also may be able to take advantage of government rebates on qualifying appliances.

If you are experiencing any of these problems listed above it is recommended that you replace your current system with a newer, energy-efficient cooling system.

If your system is only a few years old, works pretty well but has problems and has not needed any major repairs in the last few years then it is more economical to consider AC repair instead of replacement at this time. Although the newer systems out-perform older ones in every way, it may not be the most cost-effective solution for everyone.

For additional information on AC repair and replacement, contact ABA Heating and Cooling. Our NATE-certified technicians can evaluate your current system and explain what options are available.