Should I Invest in a Home AC Repair or a Full System Replacement?
When is it time to invest in a brand new home air conditioning system, as opposed to a one-off home AC repair?
During summertime, air conditioning repair callouts are altogether common. This is thanks to the fact that many AC systems work 24/7 to keep properties cool. However, the high summer heat can also result in high-stress when things go wrong.
When is a Home AC Repair Your Best Option?
As a rule, an air conditioning unit can last for 15 to 20-years before it units start to show signs of failure. When AC systems do start to fail, it is therefore important to ask yourself a few basic questions:
- How old is your current air conditioning system?
- Have you kept up with regular HVAC system maintenance?
- How energy efficient is your current AC system?
Performing regular maintenance is by far the easiest way to avoid AC system breakdowns. However, maintenance can often slip our minds right up until the point when problems start to manifest.
Offset Home AC Repair Costs with Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Is your air conditioning system refusing to turn on? Alternatively, is cool airflow noticeably diminished? If so, before searching Yelp for local AC repair services, make sure to check for things like blown fuses, coolant leaks, duct blockages, and dirty air filters.
In many cases, AC systems fail due to dirty air filters and duct blockages causing AC units to overheat. It is also important to remember that leaving doors and windows open can force AC systems to work harder. This can result in overheating and tripped fuses.
- When AC units fail, always check drainage lines and pan overflows for signs of backed up water.
- If you do see water collecting, attempt to unclog condensation drain tubes.
- Always check air filters and AC system fins for signs of built-up dirt and debris.
- If an AC system seems noisy, check (where possible) for dirt around fans, as well as worn fan belts and motors.
When is it Time to Call an Air Conditioning Repair Expert?
Remembering to keep on top of regular AC maintenance can reduce the AC breakdowns and add years to the life expectancy of an AC unit. However, if replacing air filters or removing condensation line blockages doesn’t fix AC problems, it will be time to call in the experts.
In many cases, AC failures in otherwise well-maintained AC systems will be the result of low refrigerant levels, thermostat glitches, and deteriorating bearings in AC fan motors.
Thankfully, replacing an AC system thermostat can cost as little as $112. AC refrigerant recharges can also cost as little as $100 to $350. This being the case, investing in a home AC repair will often make more sense than investing in a full AC system replacement.
When a Full AC System Replacement is Necessary
In most cases, thermostat replacements, duct cleaning, and refrigerant recharges can be taken care of in just a few hours. However, when an AC unit repeatedly starts to breakdown, it will be time to start thinking about a full system replacement.
When using older AC models, it is also important to remember that investing in a new system can result in long-term energy savings. This can help recoup the cost of an initial investment, and increase overall home comfort and livability.