When your AC system is not working properly, you must decide whether to repair it or replace it. A good HVAC company will not push you either way, but will give you all the information you need to make the right decision.
If you plan to sell your home soon, a new air conditioner makes more sense than a costly repair. King Heating & Cooling can help you select the best unit to suit your needs. Visit https://www.taphvac.com/ to learn more.
The cost of a new AC unit can be significant. Many factors contribute to the total cost of installation or replacement, including the capacity/power of the unit, its efficiency rating, and any necessary ductwork modifications. Air conditioners with higher cooling capacities and energy-efficient ratings typically have a higher price point, but may save you money in the long run by decreasing your home’s electricity costs.
The total cost of a new system will also depend on the scope of the job and your home’s existing ductwork, wiring, and infrastructure. If your ductwork is old and leaky, for instance, it will be more expensive to make the necessary repairs than if you replace your current system. In some cases, the cost of replacing a ductwork system may even exceed the total cost of a new AC unit.
Another factor that will influence whether you choose to repair or replace your air conditioning system is how satisfied you are with its performance. If you’ve been happy with its functionality and have no major complaints, it may be more cost effective to keep repairing your existing unit.
If, on the other hand, you’ve been having problems that are getting progressively worse, a replacement will likely be a better option. A reliable HVAC company can help you determine the best course of action based on your specific situation.
When making this decision, consider how long you plan on living in your current home. If you’re planning on selling it in the near future, the initial investment of a new AC unit will probably be offset by the increase in your home’s sale price.
Additionally, if your current air conditioner is older than ten years, it will almost certainly be more cost efficient to replace it with a new one. A newer system will not only be more efficient, but it’ll also be less costly to maintain and repairs will be significantly less frequent.
Energy Efficiency
As energy costs rise, homeowners are on the hunt for ways to reduce their home’s energy consumption. One of the best ways to do this is by replacing an old air conditioner with a new energy efficient model. This will not only help save money on energy bills, but it will also reduce the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere.
One way to determine if an air conditioner is energy efficient is by looking at its SEER rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the unit is. This is determined by dividing the cooling output of the AC unit over a year by the number of watts it takes to produce that cooling. SEER ratings are usually located on the unit or in its manual. Air conditioning models with higher SEER ratings are often ENERGY STAR qualified and will offer the most energy savings.
In addition to selecting a new air conditioner with a high SEER rating, it is important to ensure that the indoor and outdoor units of your air conditioning system are properly matched. Mismatched systems are not designed to work together and will not run as efficiently. In fact, they can cause damage to the internal components of both units and may void your warranty.
The age of your air conditioner can also affect its SEER rating. Over time, your air conditioning system will lose efficiency, resulting in increased electrical usage and utility bills. This is especially true if you do not have a regular maintenance plan in place.
It is recommended to have a professional HVAC technician assess your air conditioner and provide guidance on whether or not you should replace it. They will be able to thoroughly examine the condition of your current system, as well as provide information about new energy-efficient options that are available.
Energy efficient air conditioners are a great investment for your home. Not only will they reduce your energy bill, but they will also protect your existing equipment from costly repairs and extend its lifespan. Additionally, many states have rebates and incentives to encourage the purchase of energy-efficient systems.
Warranty
Manufacturer warranties provide valuable peace of mind and typically cover the cost of critical AC components like compressors and coils. However, it is important to understand that air conditioning warranties have exclusions and may not cover all repair costs.
Exclusions in most HVAC warranties include items that are expected to be replaced regularly as part of maintenance such as filters, capacitors, and contactors. In addition, many warranty policies do not cover labor charges, so you’ll need to pay for these expenses unless you purchase an extended labor warranty.
Another common exclusion is damage caused by circumstances that are beyond the control of the equipment owner, such as storms, fires, property destruction, and electrical surges, known as “acts of God.” These types of circumstances can usually be covered by homeowners insurance or an extended warranty policy purchased separately.
Keeping up with your HVAC unit’s warranty requirements is crucial to ensure the coverage provided by the manufacturer is maximized. You’ll want to register your warranty promptly and ensure that you follow the recommended maintenance schedule, as failure to comply with these requirements could result in your warranty being voided.
Your HVAC service provider can help you file a warranty claim and handle the necessary paperwork to keep your warranty valid. This will reduce the chances of confusion or misunderstandings and help prevent disputes with the HVAC manufacturer. Having your service provider complete the process can also ensure that all required documents, such as proof of purchase, installation documentation, and detailed maintenance records, are in order.
It is also important to have your service provider inspect the system before filing a warranty claim. Not only will this provide you with a chance to detect any potential issues before they become costly repairs, but it will also help you maintain your HVAC manufacturer warranty and keep it in good standing. Improper or incomplete installation can void your HVAC system’s manufacturer warranty, and using unmatched or incompatible parts during repairs can also affect the warranty. Having licensed technicians perform your maintenance and inspections will ensure that you meet the manufacturer’s specifications, protect your HVAC manufacturer warranty, and receive efficient operation of your air conditioner.
Age
Many homeowners have AC systems that are well past their expected lifespan. If you are getting constant repair bills, and your air conditioner isn’t producing the same amount of cooling power as it used to, it may be time to invest in a newer model that will provide better performance for an affordable cost.
The age of your system can also indicate whether or not specific parts are still under warranty. This will help you make a decision regarding whether to repair or replace your system. If you decide to replace your system, you’ll be able to take advantage of the latest advancements in home comfort technology, such as zoning features that allow you to control the temperature in different rooms of your house, variable-speed and variable-capacity units that offer improved efficiency, and smart thermostats that can monitor and react to your system’s performance.
You may not know your air conditioning unit’s exact age, especially if it was there when you bought your home or if it was inherited from an older family member. Fortunately, there is an easy way to find out: just look at the nameplate on the outdoor unit. This will have the manufacturer’s date encoded into it.
If your AC isn’t producing as much cool air as it used to, or it is turning off and on in short spurts instead of operating consistently, then it could be nearing the end of its lifespan. This can lead to a host of problems, including mold growth in your ductwork, excess humidity, and stale or stuffy air throughout your home.
The key is to be proactive and schedule regular maintenance visits, so that you are aware of when your system needs repairs before they become a serious problem. If you are unable to find the manufacturer’s date on your AC unit, or if you aren’t sure how old it is, then check with your HVAC technician for more information. They will be able to provide you with an estimate of your air conditioner’s age, and help you determine the best course of action.