HVAC: Repair vs. Replacement: Which Option is Right for Me?

Even if you don’t have the newest air conditioning system, that doesn’t mean you have to leap to a replacement if something goes wrong. Repairs might be possible – you just have to know what factors to consider.

Considering Repairs vs Replacement 

The age of your unit

The expected lifespan of a typical AC unit is anywhere from 10-15 years. If you maintain your unit correctly, it could last even longer.

If your unit is under 10 years old, has been well maintained, and has not experienced a major failure, repairs are the way to go.

But if your unit is over 10 years old, your warranty has expired, and you’re frequently dealing with problems, a replacement might be in the cards for you. 

The cost of repairs

If your AC unit is relatively new, repairs make sense until they start costing you thousands of dollars. With repairs at a price like that, you might as well replace your unit. 

The availability and environmental impact of refrigerant

If your unit is over 10 years old, it’s likely that it uses R-22 Freon refrigerant – and, as of 2020, it is no longer legal to produce this in the United States.

Modern units use R-410a refrigerant, which is easily found and much less expensive. If your unit is new and uses R-410a, repairs are very possible. They might not be possible if your unit uses R-22. Instead, you may need to replace it. 

Your energy bills

No matter how you spin it, newer AC units will always run better than older ones. If you notice the cost of your energy bills rising, it may be time to replace your old unit with one that is more energy-efficient. 

How long do you plan on living in your home?

If you plan on moving in the next few years, it might not be worth it to replace your AC unit unless you’ve had a catastrophic failure. But, even so, it is important to note that buyers may ask for a reduction on the price of your home if you have an outdated or unmaintained AC system.

Hurricane Air

At Hurricane Air, we care about the comfort of your home and the functionality of your AC unit. To talk to an expert about repairs vs replacement, get in touch with us today.