Repair or Replace? That is the Question.
Summer is upon us, and with it comes the scorching heat and humidity that prompt air conditioning repairs in Arkansas. As specialists in AC repair and replacement, we often encounter a common question from customers: Should they repair their existing HVAC system or invest in a new one?
ASSESS THE ENTIRE SYSTEM
When your home or business is uncomfortable, and after conducting thorough research and hiring a local HVAC technician. Their role is not to immediately replace parts in order to restore system functionality. Instead, their job involves assessing the entire system, diagnosing the issue, identifying potential future problems, and presenting options to restore cooling capabilities to your AC.
One crucial aspect that lingers in the back of a customer’s mind is whether they truly need to replace their air conditioner. The answer to that question is almost always a resounding NO. Replacing the system is rarely the only option available. However, the situation is not entirely black and white. It is essential to carefully consider the options presented by the HVAC technician and make a decision that aligns with your best interests and budget.
REFRIGERANT LEAK
A competent HVAC technician takes several factors into account when evaluating the overall health of the air conditioning system and offering repair or replacement options. While I won’t delve into system diagnosis here, let’s consider a scenario where there is a refrigerant leak, resulting in an empty system. Repairing such a leak could cost anywhere from $800 to $2000. Depending on factors like the system’s size, the length of the refrigerant line set, and the type of refrigerant used.
If the system is empty, it usually indicates a significant refrigerant leak. Simply replenishing the refrigerant alone would not be an adequate solution. Without addressing the refrigerant leak itself, the refrigerant will inevitably escape again.
REPAIR COSTS
In the repair versus replace debate, we consider factors such as the overall repair cost, the system’s age and potential lifespan, its efficiency, and the cost of a replacement. For instance, if a fix costs $250 for a 6-year-old system. Repairing it is a straightforward decision. Conversely, if a repair amounts to $2000 for a 14-year-old system, it’s essential to explore all available options.
In the case of a 14-year-old system, we would assess the following:
- Overall condition of the unit: Has it been consistently maintained, with regular filter changes and proper care?
- Efficiency: Is the existing unit single stage or variable speed?
- Ductwork: Is the ductwork adequate for the exact same system?
- Comfort: Does the system adequately meet your cooling and heating needs?
- Cost to maintain: If we repair it now, what are the chances of another breakdown within the next year?
- Cost to replace: Are financing options available? Are there any rebates? Will the replacement system lower your utility bill, offsetting some costs? (Consider the price difference in utility bills if you opt to repair today for $2000 but end up replacing it within a year.)
- Longevity: The AC system is the most frequently used system in virtually every home in Arkansas during summer. How much longer can the existing system endure?
YOUR DECISION
Ultimately, the decision rests with you and your bank account. It might be time to replace that air conditioner with a new, high-efficiency air conditioning system that offers improved comfort, lower utility bills, financing opportunities, and utility rebates.
Remember, the final decision will always be yours, not ours.