During the summer months, people rely on their AC to keep them cool and comfortable. Therefore, when it becomes unreliable, they immediately contact an HVAC technician, like the reliable experts at our Newport News Air Conditioning Company. Because many homeowners don’t know when their AC needs to be replaced or repaired, it will likely come as a surprise when the technician explains that their unit is beyond repair. To avoid any surprises if this happens to you, we explain how homeowners can determine when to repair or replace their air conditioner.
How Old Is Your Unit?
As with most equipment in your home, the age of your AC is a large factor in whether it needs to be replaced. Most air conditioners can last up to 15 years, or 20 years with proper maintenance. Therefore, if your AC is closer to 15, prepare yourself for a complete replacement. Even if your AC isn’t that old but is up in years (older than 8 years) and has a costly problem, HVAC technicians will usually recommend that you replace your unit, as it may not be worth the cost to repair unless it is an easy fix. When you contact Atlantic HVAC, our technicians will inspect your unit and tell you the best course of action.
Does It Run Efficiently?
Does your AC unit run continuously but does not cool your home efficiently? Does it cool your home at the temperature you set? Are some rooms in your home cooler than others? Have you noticed an increase in your energy bill? If you answered yes to these questions, then your AC is not running efficiently, and it may be time to replace it. This is especially the case if your AC is on the older side. Paying for a new air conditioner unit may seem costly, but it is nothing compared to the money you are wasting on your energy bill.
How Often Does It Need To Be Repaired?
Repairs are common with AC units. However, if you notice that you are constantly contacting an HVAC technician to repair your AC, you may be wasting money. This is especially true if you have spent money repairing the major components of the unit:
- Compressor
- Evaporator/indoor coil
- Condenser/outdoor coil
We recommend that our clients think about the age of the unit, the number of times the unit needs to be repaired in a single year, and the repair costs. This will provide insight as to whether your unit is worth the investment. Additionally, if the cost of the repair is 50 percent or more than the cost of replacing the unit, the answer seems obvious: it’s time for a replacement.
Does it use R-22 Freon?
R-22 is a type of refrigerant for air conditioning equipment. By now, you have probably noticed that it is becoming increasingly difficult to get your hands on R-22 freon. When you do find it, you’re probably dumbfounded at its increased price tag. These changes are taking place because the government is phasing out and replacing R-22 with R-410A, which is a safer refrigerant for AC equipment. As a result, if your current AC model uses the old standard, consult with an HVAC technician to determine the best course of action, as it may be time to replace your unit. However, if your unit still runs efficiently, rarely breaks down, and does not have problems that need to be corrected with Freon, then you shouldn’t worry about replacing it. Just contact us for our Newport News Air Conditioning Repair services.
Does It Smell Unusual?
Strange smells coming from your AC are not to be taken lightly. It is hard to determine whether you should replace or repair your unit if you notice foul odors, as there are a variety of causes associated with it. It may simply be dust burning off the unit, which is an easy fix. Or it can be a Freon leak, which is dangerous to you and your family.
Contact Atlantic HVACDon’t be taken by surprise. Know the signs of an AC unit in need of repair or replacement. For reliable AC assistance in the Virginia Peninsula, contact our Newport News air conditioning company. Call 757-877–2696 for a free estimate.