Repair Costs and Frequency
Of course, probably the most immediate cost consideration you have is how much it will cost to repair your AC unit. If you’ve made numerous repairs throughout the season and see no end in sight, your best bet is to invest the money into a new unit that comes with a guarantee rather than sinking more money into your current AC unit. When considering whether the repair costs are reasonable or not, consider the age of the unit. If the unit is older than 10 years, it’s likely that you’ll continue to need more repairs, especially if you use the unit often throughout the summer.
Utility Costs
You can also save money long term when you consider how much money you’ll save in utility bills by installing a newer, more energy efficient AC unit. Older units take more energy to run and often don’t cool the home as well as a newer model. While a more energy efficient model may seem pricey, you’ll be surprised by how much lower your utility bills will be. Energy Star estimates that a newer AC unit could help you save 20% on heating and cooling bills. (http://www.angieslist.com/articles/it-time-repair-or-replace-my-air-conditioner.htm)
Improved Air Quality
Many people don’t think about the role of a good AC unit in improving air quality. However, newer models can drastically improve indoor air quality and reduce the chances of mold and mildew growth and allergens in your home, which can help save you money on medical bills due to health problems associated with poor indoor air quality.