AC Repair VS. Replacement

AC repair or replacement? Which road do you take, and how do you know when it’s time for a whole new install?

In this article, we go over some of the ways you can determine which direction you need to go following a malfunctioning AC unit.

Some situations may warrant a minor repair and cleaning, whereas others may require a more extensive and more costly AC repair that may even defeat the purpose of keeping the old unit in the first place.

The Lifespan Of An AC Unit

The average life of an AC unit is typically anywhere from 10-15 years, and depending on care, maybe even a little longer.

Sounds like a pretty good length of time, right? Truthfully, these days, most people don’t even stay living in one home for that long.

Although the predicted average length of an AC unit’s life seems rather generous, it does very much depend on how you care for it and how it may have been cared for by the homeowners before you.

Many things can impact the overall lifespan of an AC unit, such as; frequency of use, the conditions it operates under, and whether or not you have it regularly maintained by professionals.

All of these are critical components in caring for your HVAC system as well as prolonging its life.

What Does Frequency Of Use Have to Do with an AC Repair?

The frequency of use simply refers to how often your system has to turn on and off and how hard it has to work to cool your home each time.

The number of times your AC unit powers on and off, along with the amount of energy it uses to perform, can put some serious mileage on your system, which will result in malfunctions and the need for an AC repair.

What Operating Conditions Factor In?

Operating conditions are anything that may affect your unit’s ability to do its job smoothly and without restriction or delay.

What do I mean by this? Well, when was the last time you changed out your unit’s filter?

Your AC filter, depending on the size of your unit and your home’s IAQ (indoor air quality), should be replaced regularly.

In an average suburban home, air filters should be replaced around the 2-3 month mark and once a month if you have pets and/or allergies.

It’s important to remember that all of your home’s airflow sweeps right through your filter to cool your home efficiently. If your filter’s airways are compromised with dirt and debris buildup, your unit will have to work much harder to perform, straining its power and efficiency.

Not only will this energy waste and power strain cost you more monthly in utilities, but it will also wear out your system much sooner, and eventually, you’ll need an AC repair.

Are You On A Maintenance Plan to Avoid AC Repair Services?

Another factor commonly overlooked that will heavily weigh in on your air conditioning unit’s lifespan is whether or not you have a regular maintenance plan in place.

Most HVAC companies offer maintenance plans to their customers, providing proper upkeep and lasting efficiency. THAT is what gets you to the finish line. After all, air conditioners are expensive, so why not go the extra mile to ensure it performs optimally and lasts 15+ years, right?

With a professional HVAC maintenance plan, you can significantly reduce AC repair costs as well as increase the lifespan of your unit by quite a bit.

Should I Have My Air Conditioner Repaired Or Is It Time For A Full AC Replacement?

Now for the BIG conversation: When deciding whether or not it’s time for a brand new AC installation or an AC repair, there are four critical factors you’ll want to consider very carefully-

1. How old is your AC unit?

If your AC unit has surpassed the average lifespan mark of 10, or even 15 years in some cases, it is definitely time to replace it, no question! Repairs will only cost you time and money, and pouring cash into prolonging a “functionality time frame” that has already expired is a waste.

You read right, do yourself a favor and replace it, friend.

2. How much might an AC repair cost you?

If the cost of your repair is exceptionally high, it usually makes much more sense to replace the unit and save yourself time and even further repair money down the road.

3. Are Your Energy Bills Increasing Annually?

If your energy bills are rising year after year, you are pouring money into a lost cause. It would make much more sense to pay money upfront for a new HVAC installation, enjoy the new unit’s crisp performance and spend less time and money annually on mediocre comfort and performance.

4. A new AC installation is intimidating. Can’t I just repair it instead?

If your unit is less than ten years old and having some issues, and you simply aren’t financially ready for a new install, then go ahead and have an AC repair done, as long as the costs make sense, of course. You just have to weigh out the pros and cons; a professional can help with this.

Also, keep in mind that a new AC unit is much more affordable with today’s financing options and often makes the most sense.

Down to Brass Tacks – AC Repair or Replacement?

It comes down to how old your unit is, what it costs you to operate (both financially and in comfort), and what it may cost you in repairs to continue its use.

If you need a professional to inspect your HVAC system and give you expert advice, Call Dave Lane’s Hi-Tech Mechanical today at (713) 465-6345.

Our team of HVAC technicians is more than happy to point you in the right direction, whichever it may be, as well as ensure your comfort and savings!