Should You Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner?

Summer is in full swing, which means one thing for many people -air conditioner repair time! If your AC unit is on the fritz, you may be wondering whether to repair or replace it. Your AC is a significant investment, so deciding to put money into fixing it or getting an entirely new installation is essential. This blog post will discuss the pros and cons of both options and help you make the best decision for your home. Let Coastal Climate Experts guide you to the best AC you can have.

Think about the age of your unit

Age is one of the most significant factors in deciding whether to repair or replace your AC. AC units typically last about 15 years or 20 years with regular maintenance, so if yours is getting up there in age, it may not be worth repairing. If your unit is over ten years old, it may be time for a replacement. AC units over ten years old tend to run on R-22 refrigerant, which is being replaced throughout the United States. This replacement means R-22 is becoming more challenging to find and increasing in expense. If you want to avoid the higher costs associated with this old AC refrigerant, consider replacing your air conditioner.

Take into account the cost of repairs

Another factor to consider is the cost of repairs. If your AC unit needs a significant repair, it may be more cost-effective to replace it. For example, if your AC unit needs a new compressor, that could cost you upwards of $1000. In this case, investing in a new AC unit may be better.

Energy Efficiency

Another factor to consider is energy efficiency. Older AC units are not as energy efficient as newer ones. AC units that have broken down multiple times are less efficient than AC units that run perfectly. In some cases, the increased cost of your energy bill could total more than the cost of a new air conditioner. If your AC unit costs you a lot in energy bills, it may be time to replace it with a more energy-efficient model.

How many repairs have you had?

If you’ve had to repair your AC unit multiple times, it may be time to replace it. A good rule of thumb is to multiply the age of your AC unit by its repair cost. If your air conditioner is under ten years old and costs less than $500 to fix, it is probably worth the price. If the price is over $5,000, consider replacing your AC. In any case, if the repair cost exceeds the replacement cost, it is probably more cost-effective to replace the unit. Newer air conditioners tend to be more energy efficient, saving you money on energy bills that you will lose out on with an old air conditioner that often breaks down.

Repairs tend to become continuously more expensive over time, so at a certain point, it is more cost-effective to purchase a new unit than to keep repairing the old one. AC units typically last around 15 years, so if yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be time to start shopping for a replacement.

What type of repairs do you need?

Sometimes, AC units need significant repairs that can be very costly. Some parts are more expensive than others. A refrigerant leak might only cost $200, making it probably worth repairing. However, if your AC unit needs a new compressor or coils, these can cost up to $2,000 and beyond. At such a stage, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than pay for a significant repair.

Consider your energy bills

AC units can account for a significant portion of your energy bill. If your AC unit is outdated, it may be costing you more to operate than a newer, more efficient model. Replacing an old AC unit could lead to significant savings on your energy bills.

Newer AC models have a minimum Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 13. A higher SEER rating means a more efficient air conditioner. Older air conditioners have SEER ratings of 10 or fewer. The difference between these is 30% more energy efficiency and a 30% lower power bill.

Consider the size of your AC unit

AC units come in a variety of sizes. If your AC unit is too small or too large for your home, it won’t operate as efficiently as it could. This problem could lead to higher energy bills and more frequent repairs. You may want to consider replacing your poorly-sized AC unit if it needs significant repairs or costs you a lot in energy bills. Replacing your AC unit can be a big investment, but it could lead to significant savings in the long run.

Inspect your ductwork

Another factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your AC unit is the condition of your ductwork. Replacing your AC unit without repairing or replacing your ductwork will not improve the efficiency of your AC unit. If you need to replace your ductwork, it’s best to do it simultaneously as you replace your AC unit.

The average air duct system loses 10-30% of the air it circulates before it enters your home. If your ductwork is old, leaky, or damaged, it could affect your AC unit’s efficiency. Ask your professional HVAC technician to run a duct-leakage test to detect and seal any leaks in your ductwork.

Inspect your home’s insulation

The insulation in your home can also affect the efficiency of your AC unit. If your insulation is old, damaged, or not adequate, it could be causing your AC unit to work harder than it needs to. This problem can lead to higher energy bills and premature wear and tear on your AC unit. If you’re unsure whether your insulation is adequate, you can hire a professional to inspect it.

How long will you be staying in your home?

Another factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your AC unit is how long you plan on staying in your home. If you’re planning on selling your home soon, it may not make sense to invest in a new AC unit. Even a brand new air conditioner adds little to the selling price of a home. However, a new AC unit may be a wise investment if you plan on staying in your home for several more years.

Does your current AC meet your needs?

Do you find that your AC unit doesn’t keep your home as cool as you’d like? Is your air conditioner noisy, leaky, or an eyesore? If so, it may be time for an upgrade. AC units have gotten more efficient over the years, so a newer model may help you save money on your energy bills.

For repairs or replacement, call Coastal Climate Experts

If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace your AC unit, the professionals at Coastal Climate Experts can help. We are one of the premier HVAC companies on the Space Coast, with over a decade of experience in the industry. Coastal Climate Experts takes pride in our exceptional workmanship, affordable prices, and the relationships of trust we build with our customers. We have a dedicated team of technicians who are committed to customer satisfaction. Give us a call, and we will inspect your AC unit and give you our recommendation.