When it comes to your air conditioner, you may not know when you should hang onto your old unit and when you should purchase a new one. Fortunately, this guide can help you come to a decision. Here are four scenarios where you should replace your air conditioner:

1. You haven't purchased a new air conditioner in 10-15 years.

According to CNN, air conditioners usually only last for a maximum of 15 years. If you've had your air conditioner for over a decade, you should consider replacing it. There are newer models available on the market, and you'll have the opportunity to take advantages of the features that modern air conditioners offer.

2. You would be paying more to repair your current air conditioner.

Repairing broken appliances is often the smart, frugal thing to do. Experienced air conditioner repairmen can solve most problems efficiently and inexpensively. However, some problems are expensive to fix, depending on the cost of parts and the extent of the labor required. If it would cost more to repair your AC unit than it would to purchase a new one, you should invest in a new air conditioner. You can call an AC repair service for a consultation and ask for their expert opinion if you're not sure about the repair cost.

3. You don't own an energy efficient air conditioner.

Air conditioners can be costly to run. They consume a lot of electricity, especially during the hot months of the year. An energy efficient air conditioner can drastically reduce your utility bill, saving you money over time. If your air conditioner is not energy efficient, you should consider purchasing a new unit that is. Although this is an upfront investment, it is an investment that will pay off. You will also have the satisfaction of knowing that you're helping the environment.

4. You would like to upgrade your home's cooling system.

There doesn't need to be something wrong with your air conditioner in order for you to buy a replacement. If you want to upgrade your house's cooling system, that's a valid reason to make a change. Central air conditioning is one of the best ways to cool down larger homes. It can actually be more efficient than purchasing, maintaining, and running several window units. If your window AC unit isn't cutting it anymore, talk to your HVAC specialist about outfitting your house with central air.

Contact local air conditioner services for more information.