According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), about 90% of American homes utilize a type of air conditioning system. If you have AC and you've been hearing strange noises, notice a leak, or notice it's not working properly, you'll probably want to get in touch with repair services. After a thorough investigation, you may be advised to either go for an AC repair or to replace the system entirely. How do you know what the best solution is?

Before making up your mind, you'll need to consider a few factors that may help steer you in the right direction. This article will explore the top considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Age

According to the Department of Energy, in the U.S., the average lifespan of an air conditioning system is about 15-20 years. Your AC system's lifespan will depend on how often it receives maintenance, your climate, and the quality of the original installation work. In some areas, such as Florida, the lifespan can be even lower, as air conditioners are used more frequently throughout the year. High humidity, sulfur, and saltwater can significantly lower the air conditioner's lifespan down to about 10-12 years. If the system is relatively new, you should consider taking it to an expert for repairs. It's always wise to consider a replacement if your system is over 15 years old.

Cost

For minor repairs such as replacing a faulty capacitor or cleaning a clogged drain line, you won't have to break your bank to fix it. However, if the repairs cost over 50% of what you paid for it and it's nearing the end of its lifespan, replacing it will likely make more sense. It's always a good idea to get a second or third opinion when you're considering an expensive AC repair or replacement.

Performance

You'll need to decide whether the system is performing optimally or not before making your final decision. An experienced HVAC technician can investigate the cause of the issue and estimate how well your system will run after making repairs. Sometimes a repair won't sufficiently fix the problem. This is another time when it's good to get the opinion of multiple contractors.

If you're a homeowner, deciding to replace or purchase a new AC system can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. You'll need to decide if your current AC performance is optimal, consider the repair price, and consider the age of your system. If you think you need air conditioner repair, maintenance, or replacement, give us a call today at USA Air Inc.