Repairing or replacing your AC is bound to happen at some point. All AC units require maintenance and repair. A functioning AC not only ensures a cool home in the warm spring and hot summer, it will also save on energy and upkeep costs.
What to Consider When Replacing or Repairing Your AC
If you are debating whether to repair or replace your AC unit, here are a few things to consider to help you make the right choice.
Energy Efficiency
When replacing your AC, it is important to ensure that your AC unit can maximally provide the right amount of cooling. This is measured as Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio abbreviated as SEER. Properly working ACs usually has an SEER between 14 and 25. In hot humid climate it is important to choose a unit with the highest SEER since it will be running a lot of the time.
With a newer energy efficient air conditioning system, you will see an improvement in the level of cooling control you have on your home and in your monthly energy bills. Learn more about how a high SEER rating can help you save money.
R-22 Refrigerant (Freon)
R-22 refrigerant is potentially catastrophic to the ozone layer. It is a hydro chlorofluorocarbon and has been shortlisted as the major compounds that facilitate the rapid depletion of the ozone layer. It uses mineral oil. When compared to the R-410A which uses synthetic oil and is better suited for homes. The R-410A operates more efficiently reducing wear and tear on the compressor.
However, the R-22 was discontinued in new residential units. This is because R-410 was found to be comparatively better at absorbing and releasing heat. Therefore, when you use an AC that operates by the principles of R-410, you can be confident that your compressor will not burn out.
Age of Unit
The average lifespan of an HVAC unit is 10-14 years. When deciding whether to replace it repair a unit, age should be the first consideration. If the AC unit is more than 10 years old, a replacement is recommended for a much newer and more efficient one.
Additionally, you can consider the 5,000 rule. This rule dictates that if the age of the AC unit multiplied by the cost to repair it equals more than $5,000, the unit should be replaced. If it is less, then the unit should be repaired.
Moreover, in case of a problem on purchase, checking the warranty if it's still under the time period is also a consideration. This can help in case of a replacement.
Repair Cost Vs. New Unit
Old units often require a lot of requires and this may put a strain on your pocket. When considering buying or replacing your unit, have in mind that replacement costs may be high and newer units can save you about $200 per year on energy costs. During repair, you can consider add-ons such as a programmable thermostat.
New units are installed when the repair costs are too much or the unit is too old or inefficient. New units also have high-efficiency features like their thermostats.
Home Temperature
The AC system unit contains a thermostat that automatically tells the AC when to turn on when the temperatures are high. When both the thermostat and sensor are not working, the air conditioning system will not maintain the desired temperature.
The sensor whose main role is to measure the air’s temperature in the evaporating coil and change the cooling based on the room’s conditions.
Therefore, when either isn't working then replacement is required so as to ensure proper cooling.
Air Quality
If torn on whether to replace your unit, consider the benefits that newer models offer. That includes better and more consistent airflow throughout your home. The air quality is improved and there's better air ventilation throughout your home.
Odd Sounds
Noise is due to a problem in the AC condenser. This can be repaired. However, a replacement is required if the AC has been in operation for long. Here are more HVAC sounds you shouldn’t dismiss before calling a technician.
Air Conditioning and Heating Jacksonville
Is it time to replace or repair your air conditioning unit? At David Gray Heating & Air, we can help. Our trained technicians have the experience you can trust.