August 30, 2018
With summer temperatures soaring in Upstate New York, it’s important to do what you can to avoid an air conditioning system breakdown. Taking a little action now will help you save on your monthly cooling bills and avoid pricey emergency AC repairs down the road. Not sure if your AC system needs a repair or replacement? Here are some key factors to consider.Repair | Replace | |
Age | Units that are less than 10 years old can usually be repaired and last at least a few more years. | Older units are more costly to run because they are less efficient and use toxic, out-of-date refrigerants. |
Condition | Minor issues like electrical issues, blocked drain lines, and faulty ductwork can usually be repaired. | Severe issues like a blown compressor, broken motor, or damaged condenser coils call for a replacement. |
Repair Cost | If the repair cost is less than 25% the cost of a new unit, go with the repair. | If the repair cost is more than 25% the cost of a new unit, replacement may be a better option. |
Repair Frequency | If your AC unit has been repaired less than twice over the last ten years, another simple repair will probably fix it. | If your AC unit has been repaired three times or more over the last ten years, consider replacement to save on repair costs. |
Monthly Bills | If your monthly cooling bills have increased by less than 10% over the last year, schedule a tune-up or repair. | If your cooling bills have increased by more than 10% over the last year, consider replacement instead. |
Size | If your current AC unit is properly sized for your home, a repair could help you extend its life span. | If your AC unit is undersized or oversized, it’s best to upgrade to a properly sized unit. |
