Updated: August 2023
How to Decide if It’s Time to Repair or Replace Your HVAC
Your HVAC unit keeps you comfortable throughout the year and plays a crucial role in your indoor air quality. When your heating and cooling system shows signs of wear and tear, you may ask yourself whether you need to replace or repair it. While there are benefits to both options, the best choice for you will depend on several factors. Here is a look at some of the things you should consider.
Age of the Unit
The average lifespan of an HVAC system is 10-15 years. If your HVAC unit is older than 15 years, you should consider replacing it. A new HVAC system will be more energy efficient, meaning lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
Additionally, new units offer improved indoor air quality and greater comfort levels. Even if your current unit is still working well, you should keep in mind that it will eventually need to be replaced. By planning ahead, you can ensure that your home always has the best possible heating and cooling system so that it doesn’t break down in the middle of winter.
Frequent Repairs
While it can be tempting to keep shelling out money for repairs, replacing the unit may be more cost-effective in the long run. With a new system, you won’t have to worry about unexpected repair bills, and you’ll likely see an improvement in energy efficiency.
Additionally, a new unit will come with a warranty. Newer units often come with better warranties than your old system had. So, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that if something does go wrong, you’re covered.
When deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC unit, weigh all the costs of repairs, the downtime involved, and the inconvenience of a breakdown. This will help you make the best decision for your home and budget.
Inconsistent Temperatures
An inconsistent temperature in your home can be frustrating. The HVAC unit is responsible for keeping the home at a comfortable temperature. If it can’t maintain a consistent temperature, it’s time for an upgrade. There are many reasons why your HVAC unit may be unable to maintain a consistent temperature. The unit may be too small for the space, or it may be old and outdated. Either way, the result is the same – an inconsistent temperature in your home.
An inconsistent temperature can cause numerous problems, including discomfort for the home’s occupants and damage to the house itself. If several repairs have been done and nothing seems to change, then replacing the HVAC unit with a new one is the best way to solve the problem of inconsistent temperature in your home. With a new HVAC unit, you’ll enjoy a comfortable home that is always at the right temperature.
Excess Humidity
High humidity levels in your home can be extremely uncomfortable. It makes it feel hotter than it actually is, and it can also lead to biological growth such as mold. Thus, high humidity can lead to serious damage to your home and even your health if left unaddressed.
If you’re noticing excess humidity, it’s a sign that your HVAC unit isn’t working as efficiently as it should be. In particular, the evaporator coil may be covered in ice or the air filter may be dirty. Or, the unit may not be able to cycle the air in the home effectively. If you’re noticing excess humidity, it’s essential to have your HVAC unit inspected by a professional.
Rising Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed a steady increase in your energy bills, it could be time for a new HVAC unit. An old or inefficient unit can strain your budget as it needs to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Replacing an old unit with a newer, more efficient model can help you save money in the long run. Newer units are designed to use less energy and can be programmed with a smart thermostat, lowering your monthly bills even further.
Excess Dust in the Air
Excess dust in the air can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory difficulties and worsening allergies. An old or inefficient unit is often the culprit when it comes to excess dust as it is unable to filter the air properly. If you’ve noticed an increase in the amount of dust in your home, it may be time to replace your HVAC unit.
In addition to causing respiratory problems, this can also aggravate existing allergies. If you suspect that your HVAC unit is to blame for the excess dust in your home even after having the air filters replaced, then it may be time to have it replaced as soon as possible. A new unit will ensure that your home is free of dust and other airborne particles, making it a healthier place to live.
Replacement vs Repair Cost
If your system is relatively new and the damage is minor, it may make more sense to simply repair it. However, if your system is older or the damage is more severe, replacement may be a better option. There are several reasons why this is the case. First, repairing an older HVAC unit can be more expensive than buying a new one because parts for older units are often no longer manufactured. Second, repairing an older unit may not fix all the problems with the unit, and you may end up having to replace it anyway. Third, a new AC unit will be more energy efficient than an older one.
The Availability of Parts
Depending on the age and make of your system, certain parts may be difficult or impossible to find. This can be a major problem if your system breaks down and you need it to be repaired or replaced. While parts for newer units are typically easy to come by, older units can be a different story. You may have to wait with a broken system until the technicians can find the required part.
If your unit is no longer under warranty and the necessary parts are hard to come by, you may have no choice but to replace the entire unit. This can be a costly endeavor, so it’s something to keep in mind if your HVAC unit is starting to show its age.
The Quality of Indoor Air
If you’ve been noticing that the quality of your indoor air has been declining lately, it could be due to your HVAC unit not functioning properly. Air quality issues include strange smells and air being blown too hard. Repairs can sometimes resolve the issue, but in other cases, a complete replacement is necessary. Have your HVAC system checked by our qualified technicians, and they will be able to determine whether repairs or a replacement is necessary.
Call Professionals Today!
At A/C Doctors, we understand the importance of keeping your home comfortable and safe. That’s why we offer a full range of services to meet your needs, including heating, air conditioning, and indoor air quality products and services. We’re proud to serve Gilbert and Maricopa County and the surrounding areas. We offer 24/7 emergency service for your peace of mind. Give us a call today and learn more about our services.
