Should You Repair or Replace Your Home’s AC System?

Many homeowners instantly assume the worst when their HVAC system malfunctions. However, a straightforward fix can frequently solve the issue and restart the system. The following advice on HVAC replacement or repair will assist you in making the right decision.

Signs Your AC System is Acting Up

There are several indicators that your air conditioner isn’t functioning correctly. Here are a few typical signs that your air conditioner isn’t working right. If you encounter any of the following, you should contact an HVAC expert to figure out what is happening with your AC unit.

Excessive Noise: grinding, squealing, or grating.

Odd Smells: mold, burning, or musty aromas

Excessive Dust: There is an unreasonable amount of dust in your house.

Increased Humidity: A rise in the humidity in your home.

Increased Energy Bills: A noticeable spike in your energy costs.

Leaks: Leakage in water or refrigerant.

Warm Air Blowing: Hot air flows out of the system.

Poor Airflow: inadequate ventilation can cause uneven cooling.

Common AC Issues You May Experience

• Evaporator coil replacement
• Compressor replacement
• Condenser fan motor replacement
• Refrigerant leak repair
  

Repair vs. Replace: Factors to Consider

Age of Unit or System

Age plays an important part in deciding whether to repair or replace your AC unit. If your air conditioner is less than 12 to 15 years old, especially if it is less than 10 years old, you should have a professional make repairs to your unit. But if your AC system is over 12 years old, you should consider having the unit replaced.

Outdated Refrigerant

If your air conditioning system still uses R-22 refrigerant, it can be serviced by a licensed, EPA Section 608-certified HVAC professional for now. However, this type of refrigerant is being phased out due to its harmful environmental impact. AC systems with R-22 refrigerant haven’t been manufactured since 2010.

Repairs

The warranty covers repairs if it is still active for your system. But if the warranty is expired, you will be responsible for all HVAC repair costs. When the AC unit has had 0 to 2 repairs in the last 3 years, this usually means it will still run for many years. HVAC repairs may be the best option for the first or second repair. However, if the product has experienced three or more repairs, it may indicate the system is nearing its end and may have hidden issues.

Efficiency

When choosing between replacing or repairing your air conditioning system, prioritize efficiency. Older units are inefficient due to wear and tear and are significantly less efficient than energy-efficient models. Replacing your HVAC system is a viable option to save on energy expenses, as it significantly reduces the initial cost of energy use. Starting in 2023, new air conditioners must have a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 14 in northern states and 15 in the southeast and south. Older units with a SEER under 10 should be replaced. Higher SEER ratings are more efficient but cost more.

Cost

The cost of repairing an HVAC system is a significant factor when deciding whether to repair or replace it. For example, some repairs, such as a bad blower motor, may cost a couple thousand dollars to replace. If your unit is eight years of age or older and the repair is thousands of dollars, it might be time to replace your air conditioning system. Also, if the system needs repairs and is no longer under warranty, a new unit is recommended. Considering purchasing a new system due to financial incentives like federal government tax credits or rebates, it may be more appealing than fixing an existing one, making this an excellent time to invest in a heat pump.

Consider Your Lifestyle

If you don’t plan to move in the next few years, investing in an energy-efficient HVAC system may be more financially beneficial than replacing it, unless the unit malfunctions or becomes dangerous.

Other Important Factors to Consider

New Technology

Recent air conditioning technology innovations include two-stage and variable speed technology, communicating systems, smart thermostats, and quieter operation. These innovations may come with higher costs than traditional single-stage systems, but they can offset these costs with energy savings and better warranties.

Mismatched HVAC System

If the outdoor or indoor unit of your current air conditioner was replaced separately, it can lead to an equipment mismatch. If they are not designed to be compatible, this may result in reduced efficiency, a shortened lifespan, and a voiding of the warranty on the new component. Instead, you should consider replacing the mismatched system with a matched one

Local Climate

Troy experiences warm summers, windy, snowy winters, and partly cloudy skies throughout the year. According to Weather Spark, the average annual temperature fluctuates between 20 degrees Fahrenheit and 84 degrees Fahrenheit. It is rarely below six degrees Fahrenheit or higher than 92 degrees Fahrenheit. With such a wide range of temperatures, it might put more stress on your AC unit. Over time you may need to repair or replace it.

Maintenance 

Regular maintenance significantly impacts the reliability, efficiency, and life expectancy of your air conditioner. By changing filters, keeping outdoor units free of debris, and scheduling annual tune-ups, 50% of costly AC problems can be avoided. Neglecting maintenance may result in system issues and premature replacement.

Saving Money

Repairing your air conditioning system is less expensive and frequently extends the life of your AC by several months or years. However, a new system may immediately and significantly lower your monthly energy costs in the long run.

Your Family’s Comfort

While it requires a higher investment upfront, a new AC unit can provide you and your family with the crucial assurance that your new system will be in peak shape for years to come.

Commercial Units

Commercial HVAC systems normally last 10 to 15 years. You should think about replacing your business HVAC system if it is more than ten or twelve years old.

What About Heat Pumps?

You should start considering replacing your heat pump once it reaches 10 years old, and you definitely should replace it if it is over 15 years old.

So Should You Repair or Replace Your AC?

Don’t put off calling for expert repair when your air conditioning unit breaks down or malfunctions. Our team at FLAME provides excellent AC repair, installation, maintenance services, and maintenance plans. We attend to your HVAC needs when you need them most, with the options you deserve.