An HVAC system is vital to any home, making it a comfortable and well-ventilated living space. And for a homeowner, nothing is more frustrating than a broken air conditioner in the middle of summer. When these devices break down, many people are faced with the question of whether to repair or replace them. How can you tell which option is best for you and your home? In this blog, we will talk about the several crucial factors that should go into a decision to repair or replace an air conditioning unit.
How long does the average AC system last?
An AC system typically lasts about 15 years. However, with proper maintenance, that lifespan can stretch to 20 years or more. The key to long service life for your system is regular service. Additionally, individual air conditioner parts have different lifespans from the system as a whole.
Should you have air conditioning repair or AC replacement?
The age of the AC unit
The age of the AC unit is crucial when deciding whether to repair or replace it. As your air conditioner ages, certain parts will weaken and fail due to normal wear and tear. According to EnergyStar’s recommendation, AC replacement should be done every 10 to 15 years. If you have an eight-year-old or older unit, it may not be worth the money to repair it unless the problem is minor. That includes a worn fan belt or a clogged condenser unit. Even so, you should have your AC unit and its ducts inspected by a professional HVAC technician.
The unit’s use of R-22 Freon
The Freon crisis is real. For years, the US government has been phasing out Freon production to conserve energy. That resulted in the steady climb of the price of Freon. If your air conditioner uses Freon, you need to upgrade it to a newer model that uses the R410A refrigerant. It is also a good idea to think of replacing your AC unit if it is beginning to break down or has problems that require more Freon. However, this procedure is often costly and time-consuming, so carefully consider your options before deciding.
The frequency of breakdown
It is crucial to have a functioning AC unit, especially during summer. It may be time to replace your air conditioning system if your AC is continuously breaking down. The same goes if you often need to call in HVAC technicians for repairs. Moreover, you should consider replacing the unit if it has a broken major component, such as the compressor or condenser. A newer, more energy-efficient unit could save you money on your cooling costs while providing better performance.
The cost of repairs
When it comes to an air conditioner over ten years old, purchasing a new unit is usually more cost-effective than constantly repairing it. Of course, repairs are sometimes necessary, if your system requires them regularly. However, the expense of these maintenance can eventually exceed the cost of a new unit. As a result, purchasing a new air conditioner is frequently the better long-term decision.
Air conditioner repair near me
If you are still undecided whether to repair or replace your AC system, we can help guide you every step of the way. As one of the most trusted HVAC companies in South Pasadena, Pioneers Heating and Air has years of experience working with air conditioners. Our technicians are fully trained in air conditioning installation and air conditioning repair. We can provide recommendations based on unit size, efficiency, and operation. On top of air conditioning service, we also offer a range of heating and cooling services. We serve the entire San Gabriel Valley, so if you need to repair or replace your air conditioning system, contact us at (626)217-0559 or email us.
