AC Repair vs Replacement: Know the Difference
AC Repair vs Replacement: Know the Difference
Air conditioning has made such a difference in the deep South, not only allowing the construction of millions of homes but also opening manufacturing and commerce that would be hard to manage due to the intense heat of southern summers.1 Texas homes can be safe, healthy, and comfortable due to the existence of residential air conditioning. However, since these vital building systems are also quite expensive to maintain, repair, and replace, gathering adequate information can help homeowners when making decisions concerning when to repair and when to replace.
Can You Make the AC Repair Yourself?
Homeowners can gain confidence in making certain simple repairs:
- Changing the air filter. Locate the air filter by tracing the return air duct bringing air into the air conditioner cabinet. The filter is often made of paper or fiber. Purchase a filter of the same size, slide the old filter out, and the new filter in. Old filters clog over time and a clogged filter reduces airflow through the system; prevent this by changing the filter at least every three months.
- Clean the condenser unit. The condenser unit is located outside of the home and the outer structure is a network of coiled tubes and fins. Dust and grass clippings get pulled into this network and severely reduces the cooling efficiency. Use a garden hose (not a power washer) to wash away the grass and dirt.
- Change the thermostat batteries. The thermostat is the AC switch, located on an inside wall; the sensor recognizes a temperature rise and calls for cooling. The thermostat is powered by a battery or two; certainly, this is a task most homeowners can complete. Turn the thermostat off, gently pull it off the setting, and replace the batteries.
Is the AC Repair Affordable?
When air conditioner repairs require a call to a technician, some visits are affordable, and others will push the limit of financial balance.
- Annual air conditioner maintenance is recommended by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, and every air conditioner manufacturer. Regular maintenance extends the useful life of an air conditioner.
- Most electrical repairs. The replacement of electrical capacitors, switches, sensors, and controllers is relatively inexpensive. When high voltage moves through sensitive electrical parts, some wear and tear occur, so expect a few repairs over the useful life of the system.
- Limited replacement of refrigerant. Each system uses a refrigerant gas to move heat from inside to outside the space. Of necessity, the gas is enclosed in a closed network of copper or aluminum tubes. If the gas in the system is low, it leaks out. If gas needs to be added to the system, fix the leak before adding more refrigerant.
AC Repair or Replace?
How much is too much? When the repair cost is high, make sure to get a price for an air conditioner replacement for a cost comparison. Potential repairs that come with a high price tag include:
- Refrigerant gas replacement cost can be a deciding factor. Some gases have been banned and are no longer available. In these cases, the cost is not the issue; replacement is no longer possible. This factor may determine whether you replace or repair your system.
- Frequent minor repairs may become very expensive and warrant a decision to replace the entire system.
- Replacing some large components, such as the compressor motor or condenser unit, will be quite expensive. The cost of part replacement and the cost of system replacement may be close enough to warrant replacement.
- Older air conditioner systems lose efficiency over time AND new air conditioner systems have enhanced efficiency. The utility bill for running an old air conditioner may be high enough to warrant a new system.
Struggling to decide between AC Repair or AC Replacement, RM Mullinix can help!
For more information about R.M. Mullinix and our AC repair services, schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Repair information page.
