Picture this: you’re running your AC at the peak of summer when all of a sudden, your system decides to throw in the towel. Maybe it’s blowing warm air, or maybe you shut it down yourself after hearing weird noises.

What’s your next step?

Deciding when to repair or replace your Florida air conditioning unit can be tricky, especially when you’re looking at a hefty price tag. How do you know when to do a quick fix? How can you tell when an outdated system is more trouble than it’s worth?

We’ve got you covered. If you’re trying to find the smartest way to fix your latest system breakdown, here’s a quick guide.

Signs You Should Repair Your AC

Certain HVAC faults are easy to fix or inexpensive, and addressing them can help you prolong the life of your system. Here are a few signs that repairs are the better choice:

It’s a One-Off Issue

Depending on the age, brand, and state of the system, most AC technicians will recommend repairing an AC if you’re dealing with smaller problems.

Refrigerant leaks, strange noises, and airflow issues are good examples. Though it may seem worrying at the time, even an AC that produces warm air or runs constantly may not need a full replacement.

If a fix will resolve the issue for good with little to no risk of further breakdowns, it’s a good sign. Always talk to your HVAC technician before making assumptions.

Your System Is Still Young

If your system has a long life ahead of it, don’t retire it! With proper maintenance, you shouldn’t start worrying about your AC until you’ve had it for around a decade. For most issues, an expert will recommend repairs as long as they help you enjoy your system’s full lifespan.

The Price Is Right

If you have a working relationship with a local AC company, you might be able to get a great price on repairs. Look for special offers and deals, ask about maintenance or repair contracts, and see what kind of estimates they offer for emergency repairs.

Signs You Should Replace Your AC

Regardless of proper maintenance and timely repairs, every AC will eventually fail. Here are a few times when a system replacement is a smart move:

Your AC Is Getting Old

You can expect to get 15 to 20 years out of most modern systems. Here in Florida, you can expect that timeline to be even shorter: because we run our ACs more often than other states to beat the heat, wear and tear happens sooner.

If your AC is getting on in years, especially if it has outlived its warranty, it may be time to retire it.

Your Repairs Are Too Frequent

It’s one thing to need help for a minor air conditioning fault now and then, and it’s a different thing to have your preferred HVAC engineer on speed dial.

If your system needs frequent repairs, especially if it’s older, talk to a technician about replacing it.

The Repairs Are Too Expensive

Sometimes, you get unlucky and have to pay for an expensive repair or part replacement. With a newer system, this may be worth it, as it allows you to enjoy your system’s full lifespan. However, you may not get the same value from repairs on an older model.

If you’re unsure, try the $5,000 rule. With this rule, you’ll multiply the age of your AC with the estimated repair cost. If the total is more than $5,000, you should consider replacing the system instead of repairing it.

For example, if your AC is ten years old and the repairs will cost $600, the total is $6,000. In this case, replacing your AC is the smarter move.

You’re Looking for Efficiency

HVAC repairs aren’t the only thing to take into account. You should also consider your monthly utility bills.

Older AC equipment won’t be able to keep up with the efficiency of a modern unit, which can translate into a home that’s hard to cool down and higher electricity bills. If you’re ready to boost your home’s energy efficiency, go with a newer model.

You’re Selling Your Home Soon

If you know you’d like to move within the next few years, an old AC may decrease your resale value.

Though it will cost you up front, replacing your AC can get you an ROI of up to 60%. Newer, energy-efficient HVAC systems also appeal to buyers, which means you may attract more of them.

Timing a Florida Air Conditioning Replacement

In some cases, it may be smart to get minor repairs on an older AC that you know you want to replace. Doing so can help you time your new purchase.

Replacing an air conditioner in the off-season can sometimes help you find significant deals. On average, a new AC will run you $5,860 on average, so even minor savings can help!

Discounts are more common for ACs during the cool months, as retailers often have a large supply of units to offload. However, industry experts often recommend buying an air conditioner during the fall or spring, specifically.

During these seasons, heating and cooling companies often aren’t as busy. This means that you may also get a small discount on workmanship costs.

You may also enjoy a faster project turnaround. Without a backlog of customers calling for repairs and maintenance when it’s hot outside, most AC companies can fit you into their schedule sooner rather than later.

Make the Right Move With Your AC

When you’re looking at a hefty repair estimate, it can be hard to figure out when to repair or replace your Florida air conditioning unit. Use the tips above as general guidelines, but don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable expert for help with the decision!

For homeowners throughout Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, Fort Myers, Sanibel, and St. James City, Florida Cooling Solutions can help you make the call! Our expert team can inspect your system and offer advice, and with our up-front pricing and no hidden fees, you’ll know exactly what to expect from your repair or replacement costs. Request a free quote today!