s It Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner?
If your air conditioning system has been acting up, you might be wondering: Should I repair it or invest in a new one?For homeowners in Cary, NC and the greater Triangle area, this decision can affect not just your wallet—but your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability. Boer Brothers Heating & Cooling is here to help you weigh the pros and cons so you can make the right call for your home.
What to Consider Before Replacing Your AC System
Before jumping into a replacement, it’s important to assess your system’s performance and the conditions inside your home. Here are a few signs your system might not be doing its job anymore:
- High Humidity Levels: If your home feels damp or clammy during the summer months, your AC might be struggling to remove excess moisture from the air.
- Dry Indoor Air in Winter: On the flip side, if your skin feels dry or you’re dealing with static electricity during the winter, your HVAC system may not be balancing humidity properly.
- Poor Indoor Air Quality: Aging systems and ductwork can develop leaks, allowing allergens, attic air, or dust to circulate in your home.
- Rising Energy Bills: A steady increase in utility costs can signal that your AC is running inefficiently and overworking to maintain your comfort.
These factors not only impact your daily comfort, but they can also affect your health and the efficiency of your home.
Environmental Considerations
Energy efficiency plays a big role in the repair vs. replace decision. According to the EPA and U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for nearly 50% of a home’s energy consumption. Upgrading to a high-efficiency air conditioning system can drastically reduce your carbon footprint and monthly energy bills.
Additionally, if your current system still uses R-22 refrigerant, be aware that this refrigerant was phased out due to its environmental impact. As R-22 supplies continue to shrink, repair costs for older systems using it will only rise. Replacing your system with a modern, eco-friendly model is a smart move for both your home and the planet.
When Repairing Makes Sense
Repairing your AC system might be the right choice if:
- Your system is less than 10 years old
- Repairs have been infrequent and relatively low-cost
- The overall condition of your system is still good
- You’re not experiencing major comfort or efficiency issues
A well-maintained HVAC system can last 10 to 15 years, especially if you’re scheduling annual tune-ups and maintenance. If your AC unit is on the newer side and the issue is minor, a repair may be all you need.
Benefits of Replacing Your Air Conditioner
If your system is older, inefficient, or constantly breaking down, replacement may be the smarter long-term investment. Today’s HVAC systems are designed with higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings and advanced technology that significantly lowers your energy usage.
Plus, you may qualify for federal or local rebates and tax credits when upgrading to a high-efficiency unit—making the upfront cost more manageable. Lower energy bills, improved comfort, and long-term reliability make system replacement an attractive option for many homeowners in Cary and the surrounding area.
Not Sure What to Do? Call the Experts at Boer Brothers Heating & Cooling
If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your AC system, let the team at Boer Brothers Heating & Cooling help you make an informed decision. We offer honest guidance, expert evaluations, and top-quality service for homeowners throughout Cary, Chapel Hill, Durham, and the entire Triangle area.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection or request a free estimate on a new air conditioning system.