AC units are a significant investment, which means unless you absolutely need to, you probably don’t want to replace them. Unfortunately, it can be hard to know when you should replace them and how much is too much for a repair. If you don’t know what to look for, you may make the wrong decision and spend money you don’t need to.
Depending on the problem that your AC unit is experiencing, the answer to whether you should repair it or replace it will be different. To help you determine the answer, below are some common problems and their respective solutions.
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Is It Time to Repair or Replace My AC Unit?
Your AC Won’t Turn On
Just because your AC unit won’t turn on doesn’t mean it’s time to replace it. There are many reasons why it may not turn on, though most of them only require a minor repair. For example, in some situations, your settings may be incorrect, or the thermostat may be damaged. Sometimes the circuit breaker has been tripped, or the battery is dead. Whatever the cause, you can get away with repairing it if this is your problem.
Low Airflow
Low airflow is most commonly caused by blocked air filters or a frozen evaporator coil. Both are easy to fix but should be done by a professional so that you don’t accidentally damage your HVAC system or AC unit further. Although this is an easily solved problem, it’s important that you take care of it quickly so that it doesn’t get overworked and die.
Wrong Temperature
Depending on why your AC unit is running at the wrong temperature, you may need to repair or replace it. Often, this is caused by a tripped circuit breaker, incorrectly set thermostat, or clogged air filters. Sometimes, though, the problem will lie deeper in your unit and may require it to be replaced. Again, a professional technician will be able to determine this for you.
Weird Noises
Many weird noises are a sign of wear and tear but should not be ignored. They may be caused by a broken or loose part and can worsen with time. It won’t disappear until you get it checked out, and depending on the problem, your technician may suggest replacing your AC.
Puddles
If you notice water pooling below your AC unit, it’s often a sign of a frozen evaporator coil. In some cases, puddles may be caused by a clogged drain line, damaged parts, or a refrigerant leak. A technician will be able to determine the problem, and depending on how bad it is, you may be able to get away with a simple repair, or you might have to replace the unit.
Things to Keep in Mind
When it comes to whether you should repair or replace your AC unit, there are a few things to keep in mind that can help guide your decision. In some cases, certain factors may make or break your decision.
One of the biggest things to consider is the age of your AC unit. Most units last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, so if your unit is younger than that, you’re probably better off repairing it. If your unit is within that age range or older, then replacing it may be in your best interest.
If your AC unit has frequent problems, then constant repairs may end up being more costly than simply replacing the unit with a system that works better. Even if your AC unit doesn’t have frequent problems, depending on the cost of the repair, replacement may be the cheaper option.
Conclusion
During the summer months, it’s likely that you’ll be using your AC regularly. If it breaks down or encounters a problem, it can spell disaster. If you notice a problem starting to arise or you just want to be prepared before the heat hits, make sure to contact our technicians as soon as possible to ensure that your AC unit is taken care of.