There are actually several factors that can wind up leading you to replace your existing air conditioning system. If it’s required a number of costly repairs in recent years, chances are that you’re better off getting a new one rather than continuing to spend money fixing an old unit. Frequent repairs are a good sign that your system is on its last legs anyway. By replacing instead of repairing, you’re likely to save quite a bit of money in the long run.

Even if you have an older system that still seems to work, it may be worth considering a replacement anyway. This is because the newer models available now are just so much more energy efficient than even 10 year old systems that they can save you a substantial amount on your monthly cooling bills.

This savings will actually offset the cost of replacement and installation rather quickly, making it a very economical decision. Plus, you’d have to replace your older system anyway in a few years. Why not start saving money now?

There are several types of air conditioning systems that you can have installed in your home, and they each have certain benefits. For instance, ductless mini–split systems are ideal for smaller homes and spaces where installing ductwork isn’t an option. These types of systems consist of an outdoor compressor unit and indoor, wall–mounted units that each have their own individual thermostat. They provide excellent temperature control and can be installed virtually anywhere.

For larger homes, however, packaged air conditioning systems are often a more appropriate option. Particularly if you have ductwork already in place, a packaged air conditioning system will serve you quite well. These systems also come with an outdoor compressor unit, which delivers cool air throughout your house via a system of ducts and vents.

And if your cooling needs surpass even the impressive output of the packaged system, you can always opt for a central air conditioning system. Although these are most common in commercial structures like malls and movie theatres, or in larger office and apartment buildings, some large homes are served quite well by central air conditioners as well.

It very well may be. Ductless mini–split air conditioning systems can include multiple indoor units, and can service a pretty extensive area of a moderately sized home. They’re economical to install because they don’t require ductwork. Instead, the outdoor compressor supplies coolant to the indoor units directly through a refrigerant line. This makes installation less invasive, and also makes it possible to install air conditioning in rooms that would have been inaccessible for other types of systems.

Ductless split systems can also save you money on your monthly energy bills because each indoor unit has its own individual thermostat. That way you can choose to cool only the area that you inhabit at the moment and you don’t have to pay to cool the other empty rooms of your house.

Although the lifespan of air conditioning systems can vary considerably, it’s reasonable to expect a new system to last between 10 and 15 years. With proper maintenance and care, many newer systems can last even longer.

There are several warning signs to watch out for that may tell you that there’s something wrong with your air conditioner. For instance, if you notice the compressor unit making an unusual amount of noise, it’s worth calling AC technicians to have them take a look for you.

Also, if your monthly energy bills go up dramatically, it’s reasonable to suspect that your air conditioner might not be working the way it should. Similarly, if your home isn’t being evenly cooled like it used to, you’ve probably got a system in need of repair.