When you have a faulty conditioner, there are always mixed thoughts about replacing or repairing it, affecting your comfort, safety, and finances. Either way, one thing is sure: You want to know if your AC unit is ready for a long, hot summer of work with no disturbance.
You may be trying to save money with HVAC system repair, but the question is, is it the best solution for you?
Now is the time to weigh in on the costs and benefits so that you can come up with the right decision – and it may not be what you think.
You may have other considerations, but these six tips will give on some insights as you decide.
Tip 1: HVAC Equipment Age
HVAC equipment manufacturers advise that central air conditioners should last at least 15-20 years. The air conditioner’s original quality, capacity, and efficiency are significant.
Wear and tear will happen with all mechanical equipment, but routine HVAC system repair and maintenance will help ensure you get the most for your investment inefficient operation and longevity.
Refrigerant is a significant factor regarding air conditioning equipment age. Most AC units manufactured before January 2010 used R-22 refrigerant (Freon), but since that date, no new equipment can be fabricated that uses R-22 refrigerant.
The one that’s not harmful to the environment, R-410A (also known as Puron), is now the standard.
If your air conditioner brings forth a refrigerant leak and needs more Freon, you can anticipate the cost will be in hundreds or more dollars for refrigerant alone.
Tip 2: Frequency of Repairs
HVAC system repairs recommend that AC units be repaired once in a while. Constant repairs for homeowners are a warning sign of possibly more significant problems to come.
Many homeowners pay no attention to their HVAC equipment as long as it works, failing to invest in routine maintenance.
Think of routine maintenance, annual AC tune-ups, and physical exams for your air conditioner. AC technicians can spot minor issues before they become huge problems.
For example, a bad AC capacitor is quick and inexpensive to fix. If undetected and not addressed, a lousy capacitor could lead to compressor failure or a much more expensive repair that will cost you thousands of dollars.
Tip 3: Long-term vs Short-term Costs to Replace an Air Conditioner
You will notice that sometimes the question of HVAC repair or replacement wouldn’t work because the decision is obvious, meaning fixing something is slightly higher than replacing it. For instance, replacing a compressor in the central air system can range from $1,500 – $3,000, depending on equipment size.
Suppose you’re faced with making expensive air conditioner repair or replace decisions like this. In that case, it’s essential to balance the short-term cost (like the price of a new compressor) compared to the long-term sustainability of your AC unit.
An older air conditioner (8-15 years) wearing down is generally not worth keeping when faced with an enormous repair bill.
Tip 4: Your Energy Bills Keep Increasing
If your faulty HVAC system repair has been taking a lot of energy bills, and you’re paying more to make sure your air conditioner is working right and meeting the increasing bills. When it comes to what to do; air Conditioner repair or replace? In this case, replacement is the best option.
If the electricity keeps the meter turning yet, it’s faulty; this is the time you should consider replacing it. EnergyStar.gov says that the average American home cooling and heating account for 42% of total energy bills.
Air conditioners lose effectiveness over time from wear and tear. Replacing broken parts can help keep them running, but an inefficient system will use a considerable amount of electricity and always be costly in the long run.
The seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER) can be your guide to effectiveness– the higher the number, the more influential the air conditioner. This easy-to-use SEER savings calculator displays the difference in dollars.
If your current AC unit is 5-10 years old, it is more likely that it is not operating at its original SEER default rating.
Tip 5: Strange Noises or Loud Operation
Older, 10 SEER, single-speed equipment can be pretty noisy in regular operation, especially the compressor fans, which can sound as loud as a small helicopter.
Newer, higher-efficiency air conditioners run much quieter. You will know when you hear noises, and you shouldn’t be listening.
A clicking or rattling sound is often electrical, such as a relay or control. Loose compressor motor mounts produce a rattle. Loud banging noises generally show a broken part, such as a crankshaft, piston, or rod.
A buzzing sound can be debris in the compressor unit blown around by the fan or a loose fan motor or blade. A squealing sound can be a blower motor or a fan motor going bad. Popping sounds are likely to come from the ducts and indicate a bad seal.
Tip 6: Air Conditioner that Runs Too Hot or Too Cold
Suppose you have a problem with sizing, airflow, or ductwork when your central air conditioning isn’t producing the temperature you set. The issue also may be in the electronic circuitry or comes from a failing component, but don’t ignore the obvious – your thermostat.
A thermostat that is not reacting to commands or heating/cooling inputs is likely an easy fix. An AC tech can test it. If it is functioning correctly, it may be poorly placed. Thermostats near kitchens, air vents, doors, windows, or direct sunlight will likely produce bad results.
The best place to place a thermostat is an interior wall away from all the mentioned sites. It should be in a place where people spend more time, which means a hallway is not ideal for a thermostat unless you’re sure you spend a lot of time there.
If you find the HVAC still runs too cold or too hot. You may need to repair it rather than replace it.
In conclusion
If you’re faced with a decision of repair vs replace HVAC, remember to consider these six points as you decide.
- Equipment age
- Frequency of repairs
- Long-term Vs. Short-term Costs to Replace an Air Conditioner
- Your Energy Bills Keep Increasing
- Strange Noises or Loud Operation
- Air Conditioner that Runs Too Hot or Too Cold
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