When your air conditioner breaks down and you contact an HVAC service to come out to discover the problem, they may have some very bad news. Depending on what went wrong, some repairs can be very expensive. Repairs can be so expensive that it might make more sense to replace the air conditioner versus repairing the system. If you feel like you are faced with a difficult decision as to whether to repair or replace your air conditioner, Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning will share a few thoughts to help you make the right decision.
Age of Air Conditioner
One of the best considerations as to whether or not to repair or replace your air conditioner, is the air conditioner’s age. On average an air conditioner will last between 15 to 20 years. With proper maintenance you can easily get 20 years out of an air conditioner. When your air conditioner begins to develop very expensive repairs toward the end of an air conditioner’s natural life, it makes much more sense to replace the air conditioner versus investing in expensive repairs. However, if your air conditioner is still on the younger side, much of the components are still good and it may be better to repair the air conditioner.
Does AC System Use R-22, 410A or Other Phased Out Refrigerant?
If you have an air conditioner that uses R-22 refrigerant, you should know that this refrigerant is being phased out. Supplies of R-22 refrigerant is getting lower and more, which means to refill a refrigerant is becoming more and more expensive. A pound of R-22 refrigerant can easily cost $40 to $175. If your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant that may be reason enough to replace the air conditioner. It should be noted that R-410A is scheduled for elimination from all new systems in 2023.
Desire a More Efficient AC Unit
If you have been unhappy with your regular power bill during the summer and your air conditioner develops a rather expensive repair, you may rather invest your money in a newer more efficient air conditioner unit. If you are able to invest in a more energy efficient air conditioner and your air conditioner is a bit on the older side, then you can save money in the long run.
Cost to Fix AC
When your HVAC technician does his inspection to troubleshoot why your air conditioner has failed, they may find the problem or find many problems. As an air conditioner begins to wear down, multiple components will begin to fail. If you have a number of repairs the cost to get your air conditioner up and running again will increase. A new air conditioner will be much more expensive than repairing the air conditioner. However, look at the expenses in the future. If your air conditioner is only going to have more repairs you may rather invest in a new air conditioner and start fresh. When your repairs start to reach the thousand dollar range you may rather replace the air conditioner. If your repairs stay in the hundreds with no worry about future repairs, then it is better to repair the air conditioner.
Central Air Conditioning Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement, Emergency Repairs & More in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam, Massachusetts
If you are confused as to whether to repair or replace your air conditioner, contact Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning. We will do a thorough inspection and provide you with the results so you can make the best choice for you. For quality HVAC services, contact Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning today.
