No one wants to live in a home without air conditioning, especially during the hottest days of summer. Finding an HVAC company in Georgia you can trust matters, especially when your heating and cooling system breaks down unexpectedly.
A reputable HVAC business can help you determine whether you need a repair or a replacement, offer you a fair and reasonable estimate, and complete services promptly.
Should You Repair or Replace Your Air Conditioner?
Replacing your air conditioner can be expensive – but if you’re dealing with constant repairs or an inefficient unit, you could be incurring multiple costly bills instead of a single planned expense.
There are many things to consider as you decide whether to repair or replace your unit, and your HVAC technician can help you determine the best option for your home.
5 Things to Consider Before Replacing Your HVAC Unit
- Unit Age: According to the United States Department of Energy, air conditioning units can last for up to 15-20 years. However, in Georgia’s hot and humid climate, this life expectancy can be years shorter. Other factors that influence life expectancy: regular maintenance and unit efficiency. If you’re experiencing HVAC issues with a unit that is only 2 or 3 years old, a simple repair might be all you need to be comfortably cool in your home again. But if your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, it may be time to think about upgrading to a new system.
- Warranty Coverage: Just like any other machine, even the best air conditioners have parts that experience wear and tear over the years. If these parts are covered by your manufacturer’s warranty or extended coverage you’ve purchased, your bills can be minimal. But when major parts start to break down outside the warranty window, repair costs can rival the expense of a new unit. If your warranty coverage has expired, consider an upgrade when HVAC troubles arise. Depending on the time of year you’re installing a new unit and the brand of your replacement, incentives, and rebates could make the cost of a new unit even more attractive. Ask your HVAC company about your options.
- Repair Costs: As HVAC units get older and more worn down, repairs get more expensive. This is due to several factors. In older units, major components can break, which is costly on its own. These types of repairs can take a long time, which means larger service costs. Even more importantly, if your unit is nearing the end of its life expectancy, you may be hit with multiple large bills in a short period of time. Make sure your HVAC company provides you with a clear estimate for your repairs. If you’re facing a very expensive bill — 50% of the unit cost or more, you’ll probably opt to go ahead and select a new system instead.
- Unit Efficiency: HVAC manufacturers are always innovating, finding new ways to improve the efficiency of home air conditioning units. Each unit is given a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, known as a SEER rating. SEER ratings decrease over time as units age and grow inefficiently. If your air conditioner was installed more than a decade ago, you may find yourself paying higher energy bills to compensate for its inefficiency. Upgrading to a new HVAC unit will almost certainly save you money in monthly electricity bills. You’ll have effortless cooling with less energy — a win for your home and for the environment.
- Your Satisfaction: It’s important to consider the age and efficiency of your unit when deciding whether to repair or replace your AC. But it’s also important to consider whether your current unit meets your heating and cooling needs. Regardless of technical specifications, if you’re uncomfortable in your home daily, call your local HVAC professionals to find a solution.
If you’re not happy with your current cooling system, an HVAC technician can help you create a plan to keep you cool during the dog days of summer. You may need a larger AC size, a unit with a better SEER rating, or a change in ductwork to heat and cool your entire home effectively. When you schedule an in-home quote, make sure to mention any frustrations or shortcomings with your current system.
Your Trusted HVAC Team in Georgia
Looking for an Atlanta HVAC company you can trust? Comfort Solutions has been serving homeowners in Metro Atlanta since 2009. Our award-winning team is highly responsive, expertly trained, and ready to go the extra mile for your heating and cooling needs.
If you’re considering an AC replacement or you need an honest expert opinion, give Comfort Solutions a call today to book your free in-home estimate or schedule your appointment online!