When your older air conditioning system has broken down, it can be tricky to decide whether to repair or replace it. AC repair is faster and less expensive, but more issues could cause it to break again before too long. AC replacement is a more sure fix, but it takes longer and costs more.
For a business, the choice is even more complicated because you have to keep your business running in the meantime.
Based on our 75+ years of servicing and installing air conditioners in New York City, here’s some advice to help you make the best choice for your wallet and your comfort.
AC repair or AC replacement? Gather these facts to guide your decision
Here’s a visual guide to help you figure out whether AC repair or AC replacement is the best choice for your situation. Keep reading below for more details.
RULE OF THUMB: Considering the factors here, if your unit has reached 75% of its expected life span, and the repair cost is more than a third the cost of a replacement, you are better off going with a new system.
Details to help you decide: AC repair or AC replacement?
What’s broken?
Some problems may seem serious but are actually easy and relatively inexpensive to fix. Electrical issues often fall into this category. Unusual noises may just be a sign that your system needs maintenance.
However, if the compressor has failed, especially on an older unit, it’s often time to replace. The compressor is the heart of the system, and the investment to fix it may not be worth the cost. Also, compressor failure is often caused by a secondary issue that won’t be discovered until after you replace the compressor.
Other issues, such as refrigerant leaks, can go either way. One small leak might be an easy fix. But replacing corroded coils can be expensive and may not be worth the cost.
Age of system
Most light commercial air conditioning units are designed to last 15 years under optimal conditions. However, if you have a rooftop or other outdoor unit in a large city like New York, you don’t have optimal conditions. If your outdoor air conditioner has been exposed to harsh pollution for more than 10 years, it may not be worth making a large investment in AC repair at this point.
Condition
How the equipment has been cared for has a major impact on the lifespan of an air conditioning unit. Has it been regularly serviced and cleaned according to the manufacturer’s recommendations? If so, then most parts may be in good shape even if the system is more than 10 years old. Your unit is less likely to keep failing and AC replacement might be needed.
Recent performance
Has this unit been running reliably until now? If the parts are in good shape, there’s a good chance it’s worth fixing. On the other hand, if it’s had a history of breakdowns and poor performance, you’re likely to keep experiencing problems. So AC replacement may be the better choice.
Energy usage
An aging air conditioning system (even in decent condition) is going to consume much more electricity than a new, energy-efficient one. How much can you save on your electricity bill? That can be a big factor influencing your repair or replacement decision. The answer might surprise you.
Talk to your HVAC professional about the operating costs of a new system vs. your current one. They have tools that can provide a good estimate.
Get an unbiased opinion
Speaking of your HVAC professional, make sure you have one you can trust. One way to know that is if they do both repairs and system replacements. That way you know they have no vested interest in advising you one way or another. The advice you get will be based on what makes the most sense for your situation, not what’s in the best interest of the vendor.
Learn more: Broken Air Conditioning? 3 Steps to Avoid Being Taken to the Cleaners
Don’t decide on the spot
Be wary of any service provider that insists you need to rush into a decision to purchase new equipment. Be even more wary if they have not offered an adequate explanation about what’s wrong – or one you can’t understand.
It’s your right to take the time you need to decide.
Call Arista for AC repair or AC replacement in NYC
For HVAC advice you can trust, call Arista. We can guide you through the thought process and help you make the best decision for your needs.
