When to Repair vs. Replace your HVAC unit
Nobody wants to spend their money replacing an HVAC unit prematurely when there was an easy fix. At All American, we don’t want that for you either.
A reputable heating and air company will make an honest recommendation, but it’s always good to get a second opinion before making a big investment.
Here are some tips to determine whether you should repair or replace your HVAC unit.
Repair if:
The unit is less than 10 years old
The average lifespan of a HVAC unit is 12-15 years. They can last longer, but if you start having major issues after 10 years, it’s usually more cost efficient in the long run to replace it.
Repairs costs less than half of what a new unit would cost
Repairs are usually cheaper than purchasing a new unit. However, if a repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, you will probably spend more money on repairs during its lifetime than you would with a new unit.
Warm Airflow
Warm air when you want cold is frustrating. However, it’s usually solvable.
Warm air blowing from your AC is typically caused by dirty coils, dirty filters, or low refrigerant — all of which can be easily fixed.
It could also be a result of a bad capacitor. In that case, the capacitor would need to be replaced, but the unit itself may be fine.
Noise coming from unit
Rattling or clunking noises in your system can be alarming and may lead you to believe it’s time for a replacement. In reality, noises are usually just a loose or damaged piece that can be fixed quickly.
Replace if:
Energy bills keep increasing
Constantly increasing energy bills are a sign of a failing HVAC unit. New units are more energy efficient. They are better for the environment and better for your wallet every month.
HVAC system needs repairs often
If your unit needs to be repaired once a year or more, repairs are no longer worth the investment. Yearly repairs are both inconvenient and costly overtime.
Uneven temperatures throughout home
If one room is freezing while the next makes you sweat, a replacement might be in your future. Occasionally, this can be fixed by cleaning the airducts and replacing the filters. More often than not though, it means that your unit does not have the capacity to cool and heat your entire home properly. Therefore, it would be worth the money to get a newer, bigger unit.
You’re in your forever home
If you don’t have plans to move any time soon, replacing your unit is worth it. You get to reap the full benefits of a new unit. Repair costs add up overtime and don’t make always sense for long term residents.
It’s important to consider all these factors together when deciding. Proper maintenance increases the life span of an HVAC unit and prevents it from needing costly repairs.
All American always provides honest feedback and recommends the best course of action for you. If we wouldn’t recommend it to our family, we won’t recommend it to yours.