When Should I Replace My Florida AC Unit?
This is a great question…one we receive very often! There are several factors that come into play including where you live, the age, size, efficiency of your unit, and how well it’s been maintained.
Here’s what you need to know to help answer this question.
Climate Affects My Florida AC Unit
One of the main functions of your air conditioner is to remove humidity from the air. Since we live in the tropics of SW Florida, we are highly exposed to humidity and other harsh elements like extreme heat, salt, and sulfur.
While these elements may make for a great beach day, they also cause your AC to work exceptionally hard to keep you cool. As you anxiously turn down the thermostat, it sends a message to your unit to work harder.
This adds stress to your system over the long term, and well honestly…doesn’t solve the problem.
What you will see is an increase in your utility bill and a shorter lifespan for your AC.
Repairs May Mean Replacing Your AC Unit
Maintenance upkeep is the key to your unit experiencing a longer life span. It has a direct impact on your air conditioner’s reliability, efficiency, and life expectancy. Therefore, we recommend your unit be serviced at least 2x a year.
However, if your unit is not regularly maintained, you may be experiencing unexpected – and more often – repairs.
Pro Tip – If your air conditioner is over 10 years old and the estimated repair bill is close to 50% of its value, a replacement may make more sense. It is best to contact an expert technician from Sunset Air and Home Services for an evaluation.
Age Affects Replacing My AC Unit
HVAC units keep up with technology and therefore are becoming more and more efficient every year. Efficient units will keep your wallet happy, by saving you significant cash on your utility bill each month.
In general, once an AC unit reaches approximately 10 years in your Cape Coral or Ft Myers home, replacing the unit is usually a much better investment than repairing your older system.
Refrigerant Affects My Florida AC Unit
Another consideration is the refrigerant (freon). If your unit is 10 years old or older, and uses R-22 refrigerant, it is nearly obsolete. Currently, it is extremely challenging to find R-22, and the mechanical parts required to use it.
This means if your HVAC unit is currently using this refrigerant, we recommend you do not put any money into the unit and instead, replace it with a new high efficiency system.
Size Affects Replacing My AC Unit
An undersized air conditioner is going to work harder to cool your home, causing it to fatigue sooner. On the other hand, oversized air conditioners will short-cycle and inflict excessive wear and tear on the compressor.
It is best to contact us to perform a load calculation if you suspect your unit is not sized properly.
Financing When Replacing My AC Unit
Many of our customers have determined financing a new AC unit is a great option to ease the burden of this sometimes unexpected expense.
Flexible payment plans are available and include payments with no interest upon approved credit. With low monthly payments and 0% interest free financing for up to 60 months, this may be an option for you. Apply by calling 239-693-9005
Contact Us To Replace Your AC Unit
Call us to schedule an evaluation of your current system. We will be happy to educate you and help answer that persistent question, “Should I repair or replace my unit?” We are here for you 24/7.
Related Reading
