No homeowner wants to deal with a broken air conditioner, especially in the middle of a heat wave. But what do you do when your AC unit stops working? Should you repair or replace it?
There are a few things to consider before making a decision, including the age and efficiency of your unit, the cost of repairs, and how long the repairs will last. While repairs might be cheaper, there is no guarantee that they will fix the problem, and you could end up shelling out more money in the long run. Replacing your unit might be a better investment, especially if it is old or inefficient. If you’re not sure what to do, it’s always best to consult with a professional. They can help you assess the situation and make the best decision.
At DeZiel Heating & AC, we understand that replacing your air conditioner is a big decision. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your home and your budget. If you’re wondering whether to repair or replace your AC unit, contact us today. We’ll help you find the best solution for your needs.
Should I Replace My Broken AC Unit or Repair it?
To make a decision on whether to repair or replace your air conditioner, you’ll need to think about several factors: The Age of The AC Unit The age of your unit will play a role in the decision. The average lifespan of an AC unit is 15-20 years. If your unit is more than 10 years old, it might be time to start thinking about replacement. Older units are less efficient and can cost more to repair. If your unit is relatively new, it might be more energy-efficient than units that are a few years old. A newer, more efficient unit will likely last longer and have fewer repair issues. R-22 Refrigerant R-22 refrigerant is being phased out as of 2020.So, if your unit uses this type of refrigerant, it will become more difficult and expensive to find in the future. Replacing your unit now will ensure that you won’t have any problems with finding refrigerant later on.
Also, if your cooling system has a leak and requires R-22 refrigerant, you’ll spend $40-$170 extra per pound as compared to the price of new units that use R-410a refrigerant. This can cost an extra $1,000 when you repair your AC.
The Energy Efficiency of the Unit
The efficiency of your unit is another important factor to consider. A more efficient unit will use less energy, which can save you money on your energy bills. If your unit is old and inefficient, it might be time for an upgrade. If you see your monthly energy bills going up, it’s a good sign that your unit is no longer as efficient as it used to be. While replacing an old unit with a new more energy-efficient one will cost you more upfront, you’ll save money in the long run. In fact, you could see a return on your investment in as little as two years. This is because experts estimate that you’ll save 20-40% on your cooling costs.
The Cost of Repairs
The cost of the repair will also play a role in your decision. If the repair is minor, such as replacing a part, it might not be worth it to replace the entire unit. But if the repair is major, such as a new compressor, it might be more cost-effective to replace the unit. It’s also important to consider how long the repairs will last. If the repairs are only a temporary fix, you’ll likely have to pay for them again in the future. This can end up costing more than if you had just replaced the unit in the first place. One more thing to look at is how long you intend to stay in your current home. If you’re going to move in less than 10 years, it might not be worth it to invest in a new unit. But if you plan on staying put for a while, a new unit will likely save you money in the long run.
The Bottom Line
When deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioner, there are a few factors to consider, including the age and efficiency of your unit, the cost of repairs, and how long the repairs will last. In most cases, it’s best to consult with a professional to help you make the best decision for your home and budget. Contact us today to get started.
How Much is it Going to Cost?
The cost of repairing or replacing your AC unit will vary depending on the factors mentioned above. In general, repairs will cost anywhere from $300 to $400. Some repairs, such as replacing a home air compressor will cost you between $1300 and $1800.
Using The $5000 Rule
One way to help you decide whether to repair or replace your unit is by using the $5000 rule. This rule of thumb says that if the cost of repairs multiplied by the age of your unit is more than $5000, you should replace the unit. But if the cost of repairs multiplied by the age of your AC is less than $5000, you can probably just repair the unit. For example, let’s say that your unit is 10 years old and the cost of repairs is $2000. This would mean that the cost of repairs multiplied by the age of your unit would be $20,000. Since this number is more than $5000, you would probably be better off just replacing the unit.
How Much Will I Save With a New AC Unit?
The amount you’ll save by upgrading to a new AC unit will depend on the factors mentioned earlier, such as the age and efficiency of your old unit. In general, you can expect to save 20-40% on your cooling costs. This means that if your cooling costs are $100 per month, you could save anywhere from $20 to $40 per month by upgrading to a new AC unit.
Getting Professional Help With Your HVAC System
To avoid having to make the difficult decision of whether to repair or replace your AC unit, it’s important to properly maintain your HVAC system. This will help ensure that your system lasts for many years and doesn’t break down often. Annual AC maintenance costs from $100 to $150. If you need help maintaining your HVAC system or deciding whether to repair or replace your AC unit, contact DeZiel Heating & AC today at (763) 200-5453 . Our team of experts is always happy to help.
