Posting Date: March 28, 2014
Posted by: Steve Ferguson, State Certified Air Conditioning Contractor

We get this question all of the time: “I’ve had my system repaired three times in the last two years. At what point should I consider upgrading it?”

The first thing that needs to be pointed out is that you need to be sure to have your system regularly maintained. If the repairs have been common, simple ones – like clearing debris from a clogged condenser or replacing a broken fan belt – your system may be suffering from neglect. Regular maintenance also helps your system run at optimum efficiency for maximum energy savings and comfort. Keeping your system properly maintained can help you avoid problems down the road. However, if the repairs have been more extensive and include major parts replacement, this may be an indicator that your system is nearing the end of its life span.

A question that many homeowners overlook is, “How efficient is my system?” If your system is 10 years or older, it is likely to be using twice as much electricity as a new system would use. Today’s units are designed to be more efficient and customers have cut their energy bills in half after having a new high-efficiency system installed. It’s important to do the math and calculate how quickly the replacement unit pays for itself in energy savings.

If you are wrestling with either of these questions, it may be time to call in a professional to do a full system evaluation to determine how your current system matches up with today’s energy efficiency standards. A comprehensive evaluation including the duct system will enable you to determine whether a replacement is needed and what the options available are. If you have any specific issues or home comfort problems such as high indoor humidity levels or rooms that don’t get cool enough, be sure to mention these also.

If you would like more information about whether it’s time to upgrade your system, visit click here. To locate a Broward Factory Service office near you, click here.