When to repair or replace my air conditioning unit?This is the trickiest question in the HVAC industrybecause there is no direct answer to this. But unfortunately, there are some HVAC companies or providers who try to sell new HVAC systems whena simple repair would suffice. Again, there are some HVAC companies that run their business on repeat HVAC services. These types of air conditioner repair and maintenance companies will always tell you to repair your cooling system, even when you need to replace the whole unit.
You may be thinking, what should I do then click here.
Should I Repair or Replace My AC: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself
1. How Old Is Your Air Conditioner?
The first thing you’ll have to consider before making any decision on repairing or replacing the AC unit is the age of the system. On average, air conditioner lasts for about 15 years. But in Dallas, this average lifespan comes down to 12 years.
As homeowners use their AC unit throughout the year in Dallas, the cooling system starts to have more wear and tear. Besides, if the AC unit isn’t well maintained, this average lifespan will go even lower. That’s why if your cooling system is more than 10 years old, it’s recommended that you replace the whole AC unit. Otherwise, you should go for AC repair.
2. What is the Repair Cost of the Air Conditioner?
After considering the age of the cooling system, you’ll have to consider the repair costs of the air conditioning unit. Air conditioner repair cost starts from $100 and can go up to more than thousands of dollars. It entirely depends on what type of AC repairyou need.
For example, if you need simple air duct cleaning or replacement, drain line cleaning, air filter replacement, etc., then the repair cost will be lower. But if you need heavy air conditioner repairs such as AC compressor repair, replacement, etc., you may have to spend a significant amounton repairs.
If the cost of an air conditioner repair service is higher, it’s recommended that you replace the whole unit instead of repairing it. Because when you need heavy air conditioner repairs, it indicates that your air conditioning unit won’t perform efficiently and will require further repairs.
Apart from the repair cost, you’ll have to consider the frequency of the repairs. If you need frequent AC repair, you should consider replacing the whole AC unit.
3. How Much Efficient Your AC Is?
The efficiency of a cooling system is measured by the SEER rating. If you have a relatively older air conditioning unit, chances are it has a low SEER rating between 10 to 12. But if you have bought your AC unit after 2015, it probably has the SEER rating of 14 or above. But why does the SEER rating matter?
When the air conditioner is highly efficient, it’ll consume less electricity and be environmentally friendly as well. Besides, after 2023, all the AC units must have a SEER rating of 15 or above. That means, within 2023, you must replace your cooling system.
So, if the SEER rating of your cooling system is currently less than 15, you should consider replacing the whole AC system. By replacing the old AC system, you’ll be able to save money on cooling bills and can have the benefits of a modern AC system.
4. Which Refrigerant Your AC Unit Use?
If your AC system is older, there is a high chance that it uses R22 as a refrigerant. But after 2020, because of environmental concerns, the US government has banned the use of R22 as the refrigerant.
Currently, all the modern HVAC systems are using the R-410A as the refrigerant. One of the main reasons behind this is that the R410A refrigerant is way more environmentally friendly than the R22 refrigerant. Besides, this refrigerant causes minimum damages to the ozone layer, which helps to reduce the impact of global climate change.
For air conditioner repair, Dallas has some of the best heating and cooling professionals in the US. Almost every HVAC professional in Dallas is well-equipped and knows how to deal an air conditioning system. Besides, these technicians are authorized and have an HVAC license, which increases their credibility.
5. How Well Maintained Your AC System Is?
A well-maintained air-conditioning unit lasts longer than a poorly maintained cooling system. That’s why if you have ensured regular air conditioner maintenance, there is a high probability that your AC unit is in good condition and doesn’t require replacement. You can easily use the cooling unit for the next few years. But if the AC unit isn’t well-maintained, all the cooling unit parts will be in bad condition, and it won’t give you the desired comfort. In this case, you’ll have to replace the whole AC system.
Conclusion
So, if you have an older air conditioner that requires regular repairs, it’s better to replace it with a new one. As modern air conditioners offer more features, you’ll be able to increase your comfort multiple times by purchasing a new one. However, if you’re still confused, you should contact a professional HVAC expert.