When Your Air Conditioner Won't Work

When Your Air Conditioner Won't Work

How To Decide Between Air Conditioner Repair And Replacement

by Clara Fernandez

Is there some useful life left in your air conditioner, or is it time to replace it with a new one? This decision is not to be taken lightly. The air conditioner is a quite pricey appliance, so replacing it before its useful life is over is to waste money. On the other hand, you could throw so much repair money at it, it is no longer economical. Here are some questions that will help you make a better choice.

How Old Is the AC?

Like any other appliances with moving parts, air conditioners develop more faults as they grow older. You can expect the AC will break down more frequently after a decade in service. You can extend its service life by engaging an air conditioner repair service to do routine preventive maintenance. Many people do not get value for money because they replace the AC before it's time. The rule of thumb is to keep the AC if it is less than 10 years old. 

What Is the AC's SEER Rating?

Keep in mind that AC units 15 years ago were rated lower in efficiency than today's units. The technology in today's AC units make them vastly more efficient than older units. It is also important to know what your state laws are regarding AC efficiency. Many states now require air conditioners to acquire a set minimum efficiency. But you can improve the efficiency of an old unit by adding a programmable thermostat and a dehumidifier. 

Does the AC Run on Freon?

Was your AC made before 2010? There are chances it uses the obsolete refrigerant Freon, also known as R22 or HCFC-22. Production of this refrigerant has been stopped, making it harder to get and very expensive to use in repairs. If your old unit requires extensive R22 refilling, it is better to replace it. 

How Much Are Repair Costs vs Purchasing Costs?

Industry experts advise that the age of the AC multiplied by the cost of repair should be less than the cost of buying a new AC. It would be more sensible to replace it if there are brand new units of the same capacity costing less than this amount. You get smarter technology and higher efficiency for the same amount, which is a better deal. The decision to repair or replace the AC can make a big difference on your finances. It is advisable to engage a competent air conditioner repair service to help you make an informed evaluation and make the right decision. 

For more information on air conditioning, contact a local HVAC contractor.


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About Me

When Your Air Conditioner Won't Work

My name is Maura, and I am certified in HVAC installation and repair. I have many clients who call me in a panic because they have turned on their air conditioners and nothing has happened. Your air conditioning technician will get to you as soon as possible, but there are some steps you can take while you are waiting. You might just find that you are able to fix the problem on your own, although you will still want to have a professional assess the situation. In this blog I will take you through some common reasons your air conditioner might not be working and show you some easy temporary solutions.

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