Are you considering updating your air conditioning system or perhaps mulling over the idea of taking the repair route once again? We understand the gravity of this decision and how overwhelming it can be. Here at White Oak Heating & Cooling, we want to provide you with all the information necessary to make a choice that best suits both your family and home.
Here are some factors to Go over when considering an AC upgrade:
HOW OLD IS YOUR AIR CONDITIONER?
Did you know that the general lifespan of an air conditioner is around 12-17 years? Of course, this timeframe may vary depending on how well a cooling unit is taken care of. Much like a car needs regular maintenance to remain reliable for longer periods of time, your AC unit does, too, so annual inspections and proper care can go a long way in prolonging its lifespan. Thus, depending on the age of your current AC, you may need to start considering your upgrade options in the near future.
DO THE TEMPERATURES FLUCTUATE WITHIN YOUR HOME?
An air conditioning system is meant to bring down the hot temperatures of your home, creating a pleasant and comfy atmosphere. But it also helps keep that desired temperature consistent throughout your home. Without this regulation, you won’t be able to enjoy cool air for long. If you find yourself needing temperature adjustments more often than usual or having difficulty maintaining set temperatures, there’s likely something wrong with the effectiveness of your unit.
DO YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR FREQUENT REPAIRS?
Although choosing to repair your air conditioner when it acts up is usually the cheaper option at the time, doing so multiple times over will add up in expenses, and you will only end up with a patched-up air conditioner that is not guaranteed to get you through the following season. Therefore, it is prudent to factor in all expenses, not just upfront costs, when considering an AC upgrade. This means you shouldn’t let only the upfront costs of an upgrade sway you; consider every cost that comes into play when comparing the pros and cons of repairing an older unit or upgrading to a new one.
DO YOU HAVE HIGH ENERGY BILLS?
If you’re struggling to keep your energy bills low each month, you are not alone. Cooling units often make up around 46% of our overall monthly energy bill. Keep in mind that regular use and general wear-and-tear will cause air conditioners to gradually become less efficient – this is normal. As a result, your cooling system must work harder in order to produce cold air that keeps the temperature balanced throughout your home. This leads to an increased workload for your AC, thereby driving up your energy bill as well. So, if yours is creeping beyond this percentage in AC usage, it may be time for an upgrade! You can invest in a more efficient air conditioner and get back on track with managing those electricity costs.
DOES YOUR AIR CONDITIONER USE R22 REFRIGERANT:
Older cooling systems generally rely on R22 refrigerant, which the EPA has now restricted because of its detrimental influence on the environment. Consequently, if your air conditioning unit is out of freon and needs to be refilled, it could prove difficult (and pricey) to find a replacement that abides by current regulations, adding yet another cost into the equation when you are deciding whether or not to replace your system.
Despite this, it’s not all doom and gloom. Let’s look on the bright side: if you choose a modern, energy-efficient air conditioner, then not only are you saving yourself some money but also limiting your carbon footprint! This means cleaner air for both you and your family within your home. That sounds like an advantage to us!
If there is anything else that you would like clarification on or want to set up a free estimate conducted by one of our capable NATE-certified technicians, please do not hesitate to reach out! Call White Oak Heating & Cooling today at (513) 342-8434 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
