AC Repair vs. Replacement: What Minnesota Homeowners Should Know

Living in Minnesota can make AC problems a nightmare to deal with. The humid summers and freezing cold winters keep HVAC systems on their toes, and that can soon put a hole in your wallet. 

So when your AC isn’t working properly, it’s not just a simple matter of getting the unit repaired. You may need to consider a full AC replacement. But which one is right for you? Well, as AC experts and Minnesota residents ourselves, MD’s Heating and Air has everything you need to know about choosing between the two down below. 

How Minnesota’s Climate Impacts AC Performance and Lifespan

If you’re a Minnesota resident, you already know just how unpredictable the weather can get. It’s super cold in January, the wind feels like it’s going to blast through your windows in October, and the humidity in June sends the temperature skyrocketing. 

With all these elemental extremes to cope with, your AC is probably on and off like crazy. In fact, your HVAC system as a whole faces rapidly changing conditions. This makes wear and tear much more common. Sudden changes can mean your thermostat gets set to both the max and the min in the span of 24 hours. 

That makes your AC work twice as hard in the off-seasons. But once summer hits, the humidity levels require the system to work overtime to try and remove the heavy, muggy air. All in all, living in Minnesota means your AC is likely to need maintenance more frequently. 

Signs Your AC is in Trouble

 

It’s an old unit

AC units tend to become inefficient after 8 years, and a replacement should be scheduled if the unit is at least a decade old. 

It breaks down often

If they’re in good condition and regularly serviced, AC units shouldn’t break down at all. However, even if you make sure of this, a poorly working AC will still stop working. If you’ve experienced more than 3 breakdowns over the last 12 months, your AC might be on its last legs. 

Your energy bills are getting higher

This is a sign the AC is using more than its fair share of power to keep your home cool. 

Repair vs. Replacement: What You’re Likely to Pay

When your AC acts up or breaks down, a repair is probably the first thing on your mind. However, when you’re a homeowner in Minnesota, these repairs are probably going to happen quite often. And when you have to call out for AC repair once a month or every other month, the fees are going to add up quickly. 

In the US, the average AC repair costs around $250. However, the total price range is anywhere between $100 and $1000. That’s quite the monumental cost to have to budget for. Remember, even if your AC breaks down only once or twice in one year, that’s around $250-$500 down the drain.

Another issue to consider is the cost of an emergency repair after a sudden breakdown. If your AC goes kaput in the middle of August, not only will you need it repaired ASAP, but the callout will come with a peak season price tag. 

But what about replacing the AC?

It can seem like a hefty upfront investment, with the cost of a new AC unit usually between $1500 and $5000 (which typically includes installation and any required upgrades). However, if your AC is already old, experiencing frequent stops and starts, and your energy bills highlight just how inefficient it is, a replacement may be the best use of your budget.

Plus, you can make sure your replacement AC gets the maintenance it deserves. A brand-new AC from MD’s Heating and Air comes with a twice-a-year service guarantee to ensure your unit stays in efficient condition for longer. 

Get Your AC Inspected ASAP

If your AC is showing warning signs, it’s best to get it inspected as soon as possible. Whether you want a quick repair or a full replacement, an inspection will make sure you know what’s going on and why. And at MD’s Heating and Air, we’ll be out the same day to inspect, provide a quote, and get the job done. 

Call us at (651) 815-9260 for a quick response, efficient service, and an honest recommendation for repair vs. replacement.