When to Replace Your Home AC?
There are several factors that will determine whether the AC will need to be repaired or replaced and we are going to highlight some of them
18/06/2019
It is always going to be a tricky affair trying to figure out the problem with your aging HVAC unit. You might have spent a lot on repairs and it still continues to break down when you least expect it. One of the dilemmas you’re likely to face is whether to repair the unit or to replace it with a new one. You can start by looking for a reliable contractor to help with the decision making process.
Deciding on Whether to Replace or Repair the AC
There are several factors that will determine whether the AC will need to be repaired or replaced and we are going to highlight some of them
The lifespan of the unit: This is the most important factor to consider when thinking about repairing or replacing. A reliable AC should last 15-20 years if it is well maintained. You will most likely require a replacement if the unit is more than 15 years. It might not last even 10 years if it is neglected and there is no any sort of scheduled maintenance that has been taking place.
The AC needs to be cleaned regularly so that dirt and debris buildup doesn’t interfere with the optimal functioning of the unit. The lifespan could also be interfered with if the unit is undersized. This means that it will have to work extra harder in order to cool or heat your home or building. The parts will wear faster and you will have to do repairs and replacements regularly.
Cost of repair: Sometimes the repairs will be more costly than what it would take to get a new unit. The general rule of thumb is the repairs should not be more than 50% of the original cost. The number could decrease depending on the age of the unit. A new unit might not require a lot of maintenance or repairs compared to a new one. It is important that you know the replacement costs beforehand so that you can make an informed decision.
Availability of parts: You might find it hard to get replacement parts for some old models. Even if you get it, you might have to pay a lot of money which will is not ideal just for an air conditioner.
Installing a new unit could be seen as the right course of action because there is a wide selection of parts to choose from and you also get support from the manufacturer.
Extent of Repairs: You might be forced to carry out major repairs if there is a complete failure with the unit. This usually happens when the compressor fails. It can lead to refrigerant leaks which will ultimately cause damages to other parts of the unit. The compressor is usually the most expensive part to replace in any HVAC unit. A broken compressor is an indication of serious underlying issues with the AC. The leaks will also be a sign that the coils are wearing out and will need to be replaced as soon as possible.
Refrigerant: You home is likely being cooled by R22 if the AC was installed before the year 2000. This chemical is being phased out by the Federal APA and will not be available after 2020. This means that you will have to replace your unit if it was installed before 2000 because it will be more expensive trying to maintain it.
Choosing the Right AC For Your Needs
If you’re choosing a new AC for your home, you need to make sure that it is a well-known and reliable brand. It should be noted that brand is not the only thing you should be looking at if you’re thinking about replacing your AC. You will first need to assess your building’s infrastructure before selecting the appropriate HVAC system. The prices can vary depending on the unit you want and the features it has.
The unit should be installed in a place that is easily accessible so the repairs and maintenance are made easy. There are a couple of considerations you’ll need to have in mind when you’re shopping. The first consideration is the cost of equipment. The HVAC contractor should break down the estimate so that you’re able to understand where exactly the money is going. The price can also be affected by add ons like humidifiers and air purifiers. The bigger the project, the higher the cost of installation. The quality of the installation will determine how long the AC is going to last and that is why you should use an experienced contractor.