AC Repair or Replacement? Making an Informed Decision for Your Home

We all rely on our AC during the summer heat, so what happens if your AC stops working? Deciding whether to repair it or replace it can be a bit of a conundrum.  How old is it?  Are the repair costs worth it, or would it be better to replace it?  Is it costing you more to run than a new one would?  

These are all things to consider to help you work out when it’s more cost-effective to repair your AC and when it’s time to invest in a new one.

Recognizing the Signs for Repair

Before buying a new AC, it’s helpful to know when repairing your current unit is the better option. Many common issues, such as leaks, minor electrical faults, or sensor problems, can often be fixed easily.

If your AC has served you well for years but now isn’t cooling properly or is making unusual noises, repairing it may restore its performance. Regular maintenance and early repairs can extend your AC’s lifespan and prevent costly breakdowns later.

Experts recommend repairing your AC when the cost is significantly lower than purchasing a new one. Small repairs and routine care help keep your unit running efficiently without high expenses. Repairing is usually more economical if your AC is relatively new and has not experienced frequent problems.

When It's Time to Consider Replacement

On the other hand, there are a few situations where an AC replacement would be a better long-term investment. Probably the most common is the age of your air conditioner. As units age—typically beyond 10 to 15 years—their efficiency is reduced, and they are more prone to needing regular repairs. In these cases, continuous repairs might actually cost more in the long term than simply replacing the unit with a more efficient model.

Other significant indicators to replace are rising repair bills and constant breakdowns that suggest the system is deteriorating. If you're calling for air conditioner repair more than once annually, it's likely time to replace it. New models generally come with improved energy ratings, efficiency, and eco-friendliness, which means they're a long-term money-saving option. Industry experts from the best sources have pointed out that although repair will give a unit additional life, a replacement will create massive energy savings and less hassle.

Factors to Weigh in Your Decision

Making the decision between AC repair and AC replacement requires a thoughtful look at several factors:

• Cost vs. Benefit: Compare the cost of repairs now to the purchase price of a new unit. If repairs are growing more frequent and costly, replacement will be the best option.
• Energy Efficiency: Previous models consume more energy. Changing to a newer, energy-saving unit can cut down your power bills and also minimize your carbon footprint.
• Repair Frequency: Multiple breakdowns are a good sign that your equipment is nearing the end of its useful life.
• Long-Term Savings: Consider the long-term savings in maintenance and energy expenses with a new system. Often, a higher upfront cost is offset by reduced operating expenses in the long run.

These considerations can help homeowners make an informed decision that addresses their immediate cooling needs and provides long-term comfort and efficiency.

Taqeef: Ask the Experts

If yours is an O General or Midea unit it’s likely it will be covered by CoolCare - Taqeef’s free 5 year parts and labour warranty on Taqeef supplied units.  This means that warranty repairs won’t cost you anything.   Older models (or other brands not supplied by Taqeef) may not benefit from warranty coverage so it’s worth checking this first.  

For personalized advice and quality service, visit Taqeef and let our experts help you decide between repair and replacement with confidence.