When you’re in the middle of the summer, the last thing you want to deal with is an AC that isn’t working properly. There are several parts of the AC system in your home that could fail. One essential part of your AC is the refrigerant that is used to take the heat out of the air. Refrigerant can start to leak over time as your AC gets older. When this happens, does that mean you need to replace your AC entirely? Not necessarily. Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning is here to talk about what happens when you have a refrigerant leak.
Factors to Consider When Repairing or Replacing an AC System Following a Refrigerant Leak
Just because you have a refrigerant leak, that doesn’t mean that you have to replace your AC entirely. There are some situations where replacement makes more sense than repair, though. Here are some factors to consider when looking at repair or replacement.
– Age of AC Unit: The number one thing that you need to consider anytime you run into a problem with your AC is the age of the unit. If you are dealing with an AC unit that is over 10-15 years old, it may be worth replacing it rather than repairing. Most AC units don’t last beyond 20 years, maximum. If you have an old unit, replacement is often the best option when you have a refrigerant leak.
– Severity of the Leak: When the leak is only a minor one, you can get away with repairing a refrigerant leak much easier than one that is larger and more severe. When the leak is minor, it can be fixed using a stop leak product or a small component replacement. If the leak is bigger and indicates that there is a failed compressor, it is going to be more expensive to repair it. This is one situation that would lead homeowners to strongly consider replacing the unit rather than repairing it.
– Cost: The cost of the repair is always going to play a major role in whether or not you fix or replace. You should be using the 5000-dollar rule when you’re dealing with an old AC unit. You will multiple the cost of the repair by the age of the unit. If that number is larger than 5000, you will want to replace rather than repair.
– Type of Refrigerant: You also need to consider the type of refrigerant the unit uses as well. If it is R-22 or R410A, they are being phased out for refrigerants that are more eco-friendly.
Central Air Conditioner Maintenance, Replacement, Emergency Repairs & More in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam, Massachusetts
If you have a refrigerant leak in your AC unit, you can turn to Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning to get it fixed or replace it with a new AC system. We will help you determine the most cost effective route to take. Call us today!
