How To Know If You Need AC Repair Or A Whole New Air Conditioning Unit?

AC repair can be costly, but done right might save you money. Here’s how to know if you should spring for a new unit or invest in AC repair.

If your air conditioner is broken, you may be wondering if you should get AC repair or buy a new unit. And in fact, you may be more than wondering — you may be sweating over the decision (Sorry! We can’t resist a little AC humor). We’ve all been there: The weather is hot, and suddenly your AC refuses to do the job. In this article, we’ll talk about the common signs of a broken air conditioner unit, and help you figure out if you should invest in AC repair. One thing’s for certain: It is always a good investment to hire honest, knowledgeable professionals who get the job done, and fast! If the temperature is rising indoors as well as out, that’s a sure sign that you may need AC repair. But here are some less common signals that it’s time to call in the pros:

• AC unit turning off and on frequently, without aid from you
• Air conditioner is making unusual noises (such as churning or clanking)
• Leaks around or under air conditioner
• Excessive air blowing from unit
• The air conditioner is not cooling the house or space sufficiently
• Your electricity bill is high, but the air does not feel cool
• There is a foul odor or bad smell coming from your air conditioner
• Your home air feels humid
• The thermostat reading is inaccurate

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, you may be feeling a little hot under the collar. The first course of action you should take is to call a professional and describe the problem. They will help you diagnose the issue (and the good ones, like Blanton’s, even offer 24/7 emergency assistance!). On average, the price of AC repairs are less expensive than a new air conditioner. A new air conditioner costs, on average, a few thousand to six thousand dollars, including installment fees. AC repair costs may be a few hundred dollars, accounting for labor and time.[1] But even though a new air conditioner cost is an investment, you may be saving yourself lots of money and headache over the years. To prepare yourself for the decision at hand (AC repair or new unit), here are some questions to consider:

1. Is your air conditioner more than 15 years old? If your air conditioner is over 15 years old, it might be time to buy a new unit. AC units more than 15 years old are prone to breakdowns, and typically near the end of their “life span.” While the cost of a new air conditioner may be more than a single AC repair, consider this: New air conditioners are much more energy efficient. So replacing your unit might save you thousands in your energy bill and repairs over the years.
2. Is your air conditioner safe? If your unit is leaking, sparking, or causing shocks, the first step is to back away and do NOT touch it. An unsafe air conditioner may cause electrical fire and/or bodily harm. Call a professional and describe the issue. Although trusted pros can fix many issues with AC repair, it may be worth discussing whether replacing your air conditioner is the safest and best option.
3. Is your air conditioner under warranty? If your unit was recently fixed, installed, replaced, or updated, check to see the terms of its warranty. If your AC is under warranty, a service professional will come to diagnose the issue, and help you decide whether you need AC repair or a new air conditioning unit. An air conditioner under warranty is an air conditioner worth saving!
4. Are you ready to upgrade your air conditioner? Even if AC repair will do the job, you may choose to install a new unit. New air conditioner models are energy-efficient, quiet, and can greatly reduce your carbon footprint and energy bill. Determine the age of your current unit and consider how frequently you have done AC repair in the past. Remember that, with regular and routine maintenance, a new air conditioner will last for over a decade. Is it time to upgrade your air conditioner?

The signs of a healthy, energy-efficient, working air conditioner are: quick cooling of your living space; unobtrusive, quiet sound; efficient temperature regulation; and moderate energy costs. No matter what temperature you set your AC at (that’s a whole different topic of conversation, and a matter of personal preference!), and no matter how often you use your AC unit, you deserve an air conditioner that keeps you cool.

When in doubt, call a professional. Contact Blanton’s Air in Fayetteville and Raleigh, North Carolina for all of your HVAC, heating, cooling, and plumbing needs. Call us today at (910) 822-2866.