Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioning Unit?

Posted May 21, 2021

When it’s 30℃ inside, you know it’s time to check your air conditioning unit. No one wants to live in a sweltering home, and your team at work will not function well in extreme heat — in fact, in some cases, it isn’t permitted by law.

The question is, should you repair or replace your AC unit? At Therm-All, we hear this question a lot. Our experts put together key considerations to help you decide whether to repair or replace your AC:

Your Older Machine Sucks Energy

If your current air conditioner is 12 years or older, it’s likely that it uses a lot more energy to operate than the newer models. New models are more energy-efficient and will use 20-40% less energy than older models. Updating your AC unit will result in lower bills for your home or business.

The SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio indicates how efficient your air conditioning unit is — the higher the SEER, the lower your energy consumption. In the past, the standard SEER was set at 10. The minimum has since gone up to 13, and can range up to 25.5.

Your AC Unit Needs Regular Repairs

Eventually, your air conditioning unit will be in need of frequent repairs, and this is typically a sign that it may be nearing the end of its life. Repairing and replacing parts in your air conditioner can cost hundreds of dollars, and having a repair person visit your location every time a repair is needed can quickly add up. At some point, the upkeep for an inefficient unit may not be worth the money you are paying to try and keep it going.

Your Unit Uses R-22 Refrigerant (Freon)

R-22 was a widely used refrigerant in many older air conditioners for decades. The federal government banned the import and production of R-22 as of January 1, 2020 upon discovery that it was depleting the ozone layer. If your current system uses R-22, you’ll need to replace it. Newer units use the R410A refrigerant, which makes them more environmentally friendly and much more efficient.

You’re Cranking Up Your AC

If you find that you need to constantly adjust the temperature in your home or business to keep it cool, then your AC unit is no longer operating effectively. Adjusting your thermostat is not only annoying, but it also indicates that your unit is struggling to keep your space cool. If your air conditioning is running all the time, and not cycling off when the desired temperature is reached, this may also indicate problems.

Consider Your Home’s Resale Value

If you’re considering selling your home in the near future, you should have your air conditioning unit inspected. If you have an outdated air conditioning system or no system at all, installing a new, energy-efficient air conditioning unit will add value to your home and will show your potential buyers that you have taken care of and invested in your home.

Contact the team at Therm-All today to conduct an inspection of your air conditioning unit and advise you about whether you should replace or repair it. We’re always here to help!

Therm-All