Some homeowners in Sacramento may not know when they should pull the plug on an HVAC unit and replace it. This article discusses some of the considerations you should have a mind as you decide between repairing the unit and replacing it. So when is it better to replace instead of repair your HVAC system?
Level of the Defect
The level of malfunction from your HVAC unit is a good starting point when thinking about repairing or replacing that unit. Some defects, such as shorted electrical wires, are a no-brainer since they cost very little to fix. However, it may be wiser for you to replace the unit in case a Sacramento heating and air expert tells you that a major component, such as the compressor, has failed.
The decision to replace the air conditioning unit becomes more obvious in case the system is no longer covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Install a new unit so that you reduce your anxiety about more costly repairs.
The Type of Refrigerant
The type of refrigerant in your HVAC system can also help you to decide whether you should replace the unit. Many AC defects, such as refrigerant leaks, require the system to be charged with additional refrigerant after repairs have been completed.
Older refrigerants, such as R-22, are more costly to use because their supply is limited. Such refrigerants are being phased out due to environmental concerns. Switching to a new system can save the cost of recharging the system each time a defect develops.
Changes to Your Home
Has an HVAC defect come at a time when you recently made major changes to your home? It may make more sense to replace an HVAC unit instead of repairing it at such a time.
Why is that recommended? Major home modifications can affect the sizing of the HVAC unit. For example, extensions increase the load which the AC unit must deal with on a daily basis. The AC may now be overworked because it was selected to address a different set of conditions.
Replacing that AC is, therefore, a good move because you will be able to pick a unit which is ideal for the new conditions in your modified home.
Older Units
The different components of your AC are designed to last approximately the same number of years. Does it make sense to keep repairing one component after another as they start breaking down due to age?
It may be more cost-effective to replace an older unit instead of spending money on various repairs.
Reliability Issues
How often do you find yourself having to call a Sacramento HVAC professional each year? Frequent repairs mean the HVAC unit may be approaching the end of its life.
Think of the cost of repairing that unit when compared to replacing it. For example, multiply the repair estimate by the age of that AC unit. Any result which exceeds $5000 (the average cost of a new unit) should bias you towards buying a new unit. Talk to an air conditioner replacement expert in Sacramento in case you are unsure about the correct calculations while determining whether repairing or replacing the AC unit will address the reliability issues which you have been experiencing.
So is it bettert to replace instead of repair your HVAC system? It may not always be easy to decide whether it is worthwhile to keep repairing an existing system or replace it with a new HVAC system. Consult with heating and air conditioning professionals in Sacramento to avoid replacing an HVAC system that has many years left. Whether you decide to replace or repair your HVAC system, Fox Family Heating and Air is here to help.
Fox Family Heating & Air serves Sacramento, Rancho Cordova, and all of Northern California. If you’re looking to schedule HVAC service in these areas, give us a call!
