Picture this: It’s the heat of the summer and you spent an entire day outside doing yard work. You are ready for that blast of cool air to hit you as you open up your front door, but instead, warm, stagnant air swirls around you. Is your old AC unit acting up again?
Dealing with AC unit repairs is frustrating, especially if your system is older. Is it worth fixing a 20-year-old AC unit or should you research a replacement?
Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric offers premium AC repair services in Tulsa, OK, and breaks down the debate over repairing vs. replacing an old AC below.
How Long Do Air Conditioners Typically Last?
Reliable AC units are crucial in the Tulsa area, especially during the hot and humid summer months. While AC units and HVAC systems as a whole are typically reliable regardless of the season, they do experience issues from time to time.
If your unit is brand new or is only a few years old, investing in minor repairs instead of replacing it is usually recommended.
The lifespan of air conditioning units varies depending on a few circumstances:
- Climate: Extreme temperatures can stress the system beyond normal wear and tear.
- Location: AC units need proper space to function smoothly and to vent safely.
- Routine maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance result in longer life spans.
- Usage: If your AC runs at full power all summer, the risk of a malfunction is higher.
Excluding extreme circumstances, most AC units will function reliably for about 15 years. After that, the system will slow down, repair costs will go up and it will start to lose efficiency.
Is Using an Old AC Unit a Bad Idea?
So, is it worth fixing a 20-year-old AC unit? It depends on your situation. Choosing to battle through an aging AC unit will eventually lead to consequences, some of which are costly. If you notice any of these signs while your AC unit is running, it may mean that your unit is entering the end of its life:
- Uneven or poor cooling: Your room is not cooling down when your AC unit is on or if warm air blows out of the unit instead.
- Frequent breakdowns: Struggling regularly with your unit is not a common occurrence. Frequent malfunctions mean that your unit is in trouble.
- High energy bills: If your energy bills have steadily increased but your system is still not running efficiently, your unit needs attention.
- Poor indoor air quality: Dust, debris, and allergens are more easily introduced into your air if your AC unit is dirty or unmaintained.
AC Replacement vs. Repair Cost Comparison in Tulsa
It is common to carry out minor repairs and maintenance over the lifespan of your unit, but they shouldn’t become excessive.
If you are constantly trying to troubleshoot issues with your AC unit, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new unit altogether. Here are a few considerations when it comes to cost savings with a new AC system.
Energy Efficiency
AC units that are 20 years old or older are not as energy-efficient as the ones that are on the market nowadays. This means you are paying higher energy bills for the same level of comfort that a newer, more efficient unit provides at a lower cost.
When it comes to the energy efficiency of new vs. old AC units, there is no comparison. Newer units are the way to go!
Operational and Repair Costs
Tackling repairs on your once-trusted AC unit may seem like it will save you money initially, but keeping your unit going will eventually add up to the cost of a new AC unit anyway. While the cost of a new unit is certainly higher than a repair, the long-term costs will be lower over time.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Old AC Unit in Tulsa?
In the end, this decision is ultimately up to you. You will have to do a cost analysis of your unit, taking into consideration any repairs previously done as well as maintenance tasks you are willing to perform to keep it running.
It is important to remember that ACs do lose efficiency over time and a replacement will eventually be necessary, so doing it sooner rather than later will save you down the road.
Is it worth fixing a 20-year-old AC unit in Tulsa? The team at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is here to help. Contact us today at (918) 393-4577 for a professional evaluation; learn more now.
