An Expert HVAC Contractor Tells How You Can Know
Air conditioning systems have changed a lot, including in terms of improved technology and government environmental regulations. If your unit breaks down entirely or doesn’t provide the same amount of cold air that it used to, it could be worth it having it replaced instead of repaired. The right decision can only be taken after the inspection of a professional HVAC contractor.
Here are some factors to consider when wondering if you should have your residential HVAC system fixed or replaced:
- Age of the Unit
Age is an essential factor. EnergyStar recommends that you replace your HVAC unit every 10 to 15 years.
An eight-year-old or older air conditioning system may not be worth the cost to repair it, unless the repair is an easy fix, like a worn fan belt or a clogged condenser unit. Still, you will have to consult with an experienced HVAC contractor to take a look at your unit and the ducts delivering cold air.
- Use of R-22 Freon
The federal government is phasing out Freon so that it can conserve energy across the nation. For this reason, Freon costs are increasing significantly. If your equipment uses Freon, you’ll need to replace it eventually so that you can make the switch to the new R410A refrigerant.
Also, manufacturers now use a non-ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant.
- Breakdown Frequency
If your unit is continually breaking down over time, ongoing repairs can add up — and regularly doing them on the older equipment just doesn’t make sense.
Investing in newer equipment can not only spare you the headaches of frequent visits from an HVAC contractor, but it will also save you money in the long run.
- Repair Costs
If your unit is over the age of 10, buying a new one might very well be a better investment. HVAC units will still need repairs every once in a while. However, if your system requires repairs almost all the time, these can eventually cost more than a replacement, making investing in a new unit the smarter choice.
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