There is never a good time for your air conditioner to break down! Florida’s weather is often unpredictable and going without AC can be brutal, especially for residents with at-risk health conditions.

The good news is that with the right professional service, repairing or replacing a failing air conditioner can be done quickly and efficiently. But when is the best time to replace an older system? The answer to that can be tricky, especially when you need to act quickly and find yourself in the middle of a heat wave. In the end, it is up to the homeowner to decide the best time to replace an air conditioning system and the best time to repair an existing HVAC unit instead. With our recommendations, you’ll save time and money, all while keeping you cool when it matters most!

Understanding Your HVAC Warranty

The first step in this process of buying a new HVAC system is to check the status of the warranty. For most AC systems, the warranty covers the cost of replacement parts for 5-10 years. If your warranty is still in effect, the best decision may be to repair the HVAC system instead of replacing it entirely. This allows you to only pay for the labor while the replacement parts are covered. But even if the warranty is expired, repairs still might be the best option, especially if you’ve had your system serviced regularly. However, if the cost gets too high after the warranty period, it may be time to think about a replacement.

Costs of HVAC Repairs and Maintenance

The reason for excess costs after the warranty has expired is usually due to repair costs or monthly bills, or a combination of the two. Separately, they shouldn’t cause too much of a dent, but if the costs continue to add up after the warranty expires, it’s time to take a close look at the system to see if you need a new one.

Repair costs can vary depending on what they are. You may find that a single repair cost may be more expensive than anticipated. If that is the case, you might decide to save that money and replace your system altogether. Alternatively, the frequency of repairs may become higher than the system is even worth. Generally, having repairs done more than twice in a year is usually an indicator that it’s time for a new air conditioner.

No matter how well you preserve your system, natural wear and tear are inevitable. The impact of this, although substantial financially, does not mean your system has completely broken down. Sometimes, the simple cost of keeping your system operating becomes more than you are willing to pay. It can be the monthly costs alone, or high monthly costs alongside a more serious problem that are the telltale signs it’s time for a new unit.

If you need repairs on the air conditioner in your Tampa, FL home, or you’ve decided that a replacement system is a way to go, call the experts at Air 24/7 Air Conditioning & Heating. We’ll arrive quickly and solve all your heating and air conditioning problems with ease!

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