When Should You Replace Your AC Unit?

June 4th, 2018 Posted in Air Conditioning Service and Repair
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If your AC unit needs a repair and the estimate is for $300-$700 or more, you may be wondering if it is time to replace your system versus repair it. As air conditioning systems become older, repair services increase in frequency and often in costs. While many AC units can last 15 years or more, there comes a point when you should consider replacement as a viable option instead of putting more money into a unit that is reaching the end of its lifespan. Here are some ways to determine when you should replace your AC unit.

Is It Ten Years or Older?

New air conditioning units have better options in efficiency. If your unit is over ten years old, you may be better off upgrading to a new system that will save you money on energy costs. Depending on the efficiency of your current unit, you could save hundreds of dollars each year by upgrading sooner rather than later.

$5,000 Rule

One way that HVAC professionals recommend determining repair versus replacement is the $5,000 rule. If you need a repair, take the cost of your repair and multiple it by the age of your unit. If that is more than $5,000, it may be better to replace than repair and vice versa. If the repair will be $500 and your unit is 10+ years old, multiplying them would be $5,000+ and it is worthwhile to consider replacement.

You want to get the most use from your AC unit, but you also want a system that is reliable and efficient. Before you spend money on repairs on an old unit, take the time to consider whether it is time to replace – it may be the best solution for the long run.

Posted on behalf of:
Western Aire Heating & Cooling
264 Buchanan Highway
Dallas, GA 30157
(770) 505-7426

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How Long Will My HVAC Last?

July 30th, 2013 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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The life span of a typical residential HVAC system depends upon a number of variables including the initial proper design of the system as well as proper HVAC system maintenance.  In general the equipment will last 10 years or more, while the ductwork will last for the life of the home. 

The key is the proper design of the system, which includes the proper sizing of the equipment.  This means that the HVAC contractor will consider a number of factors while designing the heating and cooling system including the outdoor temperatures during the winter and summer.  In addition, they will calculate the heat loss and gain of the home thru the building envelope, especially the exterior doors and windows.  A system that is undersized will typically run into issues before one that is properly sized.  This is due to the undersized system running more than a properly sized system because the heating and cooling needs can never be met. 

However, the biggest factor impacting the lifespan of a HVAC system is the lack of maintenance, including regular filter changes, cleaning of the units, checking the refrigerant levels, periodic duct cleaning and thorough periodic inspections.  The best way to increase the lifespan of your HVAC equipment is to have a periodic check of the system prior to the heating and cooling systems.  Most qualified HVAC contractors have a dedicated service department that can provide this periodic service at a very reasonable cost, which will extend the life of the mechanical equipment in your home!

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R-22 Phase-Out and What it Means for You

March 26th, 2013 Posted in HVAC Replacement
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If you’re not an HVAC professional, the news that one of the most common and popular air conditioner refrigerants on the market is being phased out may have passed you by. R-22, the refrigerant used in many air conditioners, is in the process of being phased out and replaced by a more environmentally sound choice, R-410a. While this may seem like unimportant news on the surface, this change could actually affect you and your home. 

Starting in 2020, any air conditioner or heating systems relying on R-22 refrigerant will be restricted in terms of what they can use, with all R-22 being exclusively reclaimed or recycled. This will almost certainly cause services requiring refrigerant to become much more expensive. 

While the Environmental Protection Agency does not currently require homeowners to convert or change R-22 refrigerant-reliant systems, you may still want to consider upgrading to an EPA-compliant system. Whether you’re looking to do your part in terms of taking care of the environment or simply looking for a more cost-effective way to control the temperature of your home, an air conditioner replacement may be the best solution. As the availability of R-22 drops, the price will undoubtedly skyrocket. 

A licensed HVAC professional in your area will still be able to service an air conditioner that uses R-22, even as the price of the substance rises. Speaking with your HVAC professional to discuss your options regarding upgrades and how the phaseout of R-22 will affect you can give you the details you need to make an informed, wise decision.

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Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

March 8th, 2013 Posted in HVAC Replacement
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The most reliable sign of an air conditioning unit that needs replacing is one that no longer works. Still, there are a variety of reasons along the way to your AC’s last gasp that may indicate that it’s time to consider installing a new air conditioner. 

Before your air conditioner completely gives up, you may be faced with a series of expensive repairs. If you’re calling an HVAC technician on a fairly regular basis to diagnose and repair yet another problem with the AC unit, it’s wise to start looking into replacement options. By beginning your search while the existing unit is still marginally functional, you’ll be afforded a bit of time to do some research regarding this large purchase. When you’re not under the time constraints introduced by high temperatures and air conditioning that isn’t working, you’re able to more thoroughly examine your options. 

Another sign of a faltering AC unit is the constant need to adjust the thermostat. If you’re never quite comfortable, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up with the distribution of air throughout your home. 

Even if your AC is still in good working condition, you may find that upgrading to a newer, more energy efficient model saves so much on your monthly cooling bills that the new unit effectively pays for itself over just a few years. Discussing the age, condition and level of functionality of your AC unit with an experienced HVAC contractor is the best way to determine what, if any, action should be taken in regard to your air conditioning system.

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Why to Hire a Heating Contractor with Years of Experience

January 29th, 2013 Posted in HVAC Replacement
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When you hire a heating contractor, you are trusting them to advise you on the best approach to your heating solution, whether it relates to repairs are the installation of a new furnace. As in any field of work, classroom education is no replacement for experience on the job. Years of experience offer a wider range of problems encountered and solutions found.

The more experienced the contractor, the more likely he is to spot energy efficiency issues and provide you with information on how to cut down on your heating costs. He’ll also have experience with a broader range of furnace brands and types of heating systems. This can be especially important if you have an older home with an older heating system. You want someone who isn’t trained in just the newest models, but someone who has hands on experience with the type of system you have in your home.

Another benefit of having someone with experience is that they tend to work faster. The more experience a person has in his line of work, the more efficient he will be with his time. His experience is also likely to help him determine the root of the problem faster than someone with less experience. That can make a big difference when you’re paying hourly labor rates for a furnace repair.

If you want the job does fast and done right, always opt for the heating contractor who has the most experience and highest recommendations from their previous clients.

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Making the Repair or Replace Decision

February 17th, 2012 Posted in HVAC Maintenance
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As your home’s central heating and air conditioning system starts to age, breakdowns and repairs become inevitable.  The temptation is to continue repairing your system until your HVAC technician declares that the system is finished.  After all, no one is eager to spend the money for a new heating and air conditioning system when the existing system can be repaired for much less.

However, in many cases repairing your old HVAC system is a case of “penny wise, pound foolish”.  First, an HVAC system can be expected to last about 15 years. If your system is more than 10 years old, consider the current repair as a sign that the future holds more breakdowns and repairs.  Don’t assume that you will get another 10 to 15 years of trouble free service out of the unit.

In addition, modern heating and air conditioning systems are much more energy efficient than those sold 10 to 15 years ago.  Increased efficiency means lower heating and cooling costs year after year.  These savings alone can offset a significant portion of the cost of a new HVAC system. 

Finally, consider the cost of the air conditioner or furnace repair.  A relatively inexpensive repair to a system that’s less than 10 years old and has otherwise proven reliable is probably a cost effective solution, but you should give serious consideration to a new HVAC installation before spending money on expensive repairs to a system of any age and especially before paying for anything more than the most minor repairs to an older heating and cooling system. 

When in doubt, talk to your HVAC contractor or technician.  They can help you decide if your old system is worth fixing or if a new energy efficient HVAC system makes financial sense.

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