You set your thermostat, but your heating and cooling system has trouble reaching the desired temperature. Or maybe you’ve watched your energy bill climb higher and higher each month. A feeling of wariness washes over you as you realize your heating and cooling system isn’t working quite right.

How do you know if your current air conditioner has plenty of life left or if it’s on its last leg? Should you repair or replace? It’s often hard to tell.

The next time heating or cooling issues crop up in your home, consider the six questions below. 

1.  Are You Following the 5,000 Rule?

A little math goes a long way in knowing whether to repair or replace your heating and cooling system. It’s simple: Multiply your unit’s age by repair costs. If the number exceeds $5,000, it’s best to replace the unit. If less, you can make repairs.

2.  How Old Is Your AC System?

Most heating and cooling systems last 15-20 years. Like anything, your AC unit is likely to experience issues as it gets older. If your unit is 15 years old, chat with Marlin James about replacing it with a new system. You’ll invest more up front, but it ultimately costs less than maintaining an older system. 

3.  Is Your Unit Energy Efficient?

The higher your energy bill, the lower the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. If your unit is more than 10 years old, consider replacing it with an energy-efficient unit. You’ll feel the benefits in your home and on your wallet.

And remember that even if your unit appears to be in good condition, your energy bills don’t lie. If you find yourself paying more each month and your provider isn’t increasing prices, your AC unit is likely losing efficiency. If you decide now is the time to invest in an energy-efficient unit, you could claim an energy tax credit.

4.  Can Replacing Your Unit Help the Environment?

R22 is an ozone-depleting refrigerant that is gradually being phased out and will be completely unavailable by 2020. If your system still runs on R22, it’s time to consider a new unit. All current Lennox units use R-410A, which is better for the environment and saves you on energy costs. 

If you’re concerned about your energy footprint, you may be surprised to know that your heating and cooling system can account for up to 50% of your home’s energy use. Upgrading to new Energy Star^® qualified equipment ensures your units meet or exceed federal standards for efficiency. Lennox produces many Energy Star qualified products.

5.  Are You Planning Home Renovations?

Many homeowners overlook their heating and cooling system when it comes to renovating. However, this can be a costly oversight as your unit might not be able to handle the changes or square footage increase. Ask your Lennox^® dealer to check whether you need additional returns, ductwork adjustments or other updates. 

6.  Is Your System Sized Correctly?

It’s possible your unit might not be the right size for your home. A number of factors, including your home’s orientation and number of windows, can affect what size system you need.

Don’t think bigger is better. If your system is too large for your home, it will only operate in short bursts and won’t have an opportunity to dehumidify the air. It also costs more to operate. A properly sized system, on the other hand, runs a little bit longer each time it turns on, allowing it to cool and dehumidify your home. The end result is a higher level of comfort in your home.

It’s a question every homeowner faces at some point: Should I fix my AC or purchase a new one? While every situation is unique, it pays to consider the six points above. Want some guidance in making your decision? We’re here to help. Contact Marlin James today!