AC Repair Vs. Replacement: Pros & Cons
Summers are great only if your air conditioner is working. Hot and humid days can be unbearable. Thanks to AC units, they make out homes cool, comfortable – perfect after spending time outdoors.
But like other home appliances, air conditioners might break down or conk out over time. The average life expectancy of air conditioners is around 10 to 15 years. Proper maintenance is crucial in its longevity as well as preventing unwanted AC breakdowns in the height of summer.
Although some AC units last beyond 20 years, the condenser unit and compressor are particularly vulnerable to wear and tear. Hence, replacement is generally recommended after 15 years to ensure energy efficiency. Replacing an old AC unit translates to monthly energy savings.
When the air conditioner conks out, it’s easy to call AC technicians. Some AC errors can be easily fixed with minimal cost while some major troubles entail huge expenses and even replacement.
With so many different AC troubles and considerations, how do you know when it’s time to repair or replace the unit? What are the pros and cons of both options? Let’s check out below.
AC Repair
Repair is recommended if the unit is fairly new and the repair cost is not that expensive. However, if it is an older unit or it has breached half of its lifespan, then you should reconsider repair.
Consider how often the AC unit breaks. If it is the first time your unit conks out, chances are a quick fix is enough. But if the air conditioner has had regular breakdowns with costly fixes, then replacement is warranted.
In some cases, a relatively new air conditioner might suffer some major malfunctions and require a new installation. In these cases, it is best to consult a reputable air conditioner technician to help you explore and understand your options.
Below are the pros and cons of AC repair that can help you weigh your options.
Pros
- Relatively cheaper compared to replacement
- Quickly resolve the problem in just a matter of hours
- No extra costs on the removal of old unit and installation of a new one
- Eco-friendly as you get to use the same unit
Cons
- Possibility of future malfunctions as well as repair costs
- Difficulty finding reliable technicians in some areas
- Missing out on features of new AC models
AC Replacement
Aside from the points discussed above, you should consider replacing the AC unit if there are safety concerns involved. AC replacement technicians from Hartman always emphasized safety first. For example, if the AC technician finds a major electrical malfunction that could lead to fire, they will surely recommend replacement.
Efficiency is another major consideration when it comes to replacing the AC unit. Older units that are less energy efficient can be updated with newer, better models. Although replacement can be a bit costly, it’s a worthwhile investment. You can save big on monthly power bills with energy-efficient models.
Pros
- More efficient models mean huge savings on monthly power bills
- Capitalize on modern features and designs of new models, such as smart technology capabilities and better energy-efficiency
- Assurance that the unit won’t conk out in the height of summer
- Environmentally friendly as it uses less energy
Cons
- Expensive, upfront cost
- Additional costs on delivery and installation
- Possible renovation work if a new unit doesn’t fit the existing slot
- Installation might take time
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So, should you repair or replace your air conditioner?
While the points discussed above can guide in making an informed decision, every case is unique. The following questions can further help you decide.
- What is the age of your air conditioner?
If the unit is already past or near its lifespan, replacement is warranted. If it’s not yet midway, consider repair.
- Is the unit energy-efficient?
Check the energy-efficiency rating of your air conditioner. Energy-efficient models can save you big money in the long term. Although replacing it with a new one entails a major upfront cost, you’ll enjoy big savings on the monthly bill.
- What is the damage?
If the malfunction is simple and requires inexpensive repair, you can have it fixed. But if the damage is severe and the repair costs could be more than your expected budget, consider a replacement.
Whether to repair or replace your AC unit is a major decision that requires facts from a professional. Work with a reputable and trustworthy AC repair technician to help you discern available options.
AC Repair Vs. Replacement: Pros & Cons