When your air conditioner isn’t working as well as it used to, or if you’re seeing signs that it might need some repairs, you may be wondering whether you should go ahead and replace the entire system.
After all, a new air conditioner might be more efficient and save you money on your energy bills in the long run.
But before you make any decisions, it’s essential to understand the benefits and costs of repairing and replacing your AC unit.
In this article, we’ll discuss all the factors you need to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioner. You can also check out HVAC Burlington for a more personalized assessment of your air conditioner.
Air conditioning unit
AC units generally have two parts: an indoor unit, usually mounted in a window or on the wall, and an outdoor unit.
The indoor unit contains the compressor, condenser coil, evaporator coil, and blower. The outdoor unit contains the compressor, condenser fan, and refrigerant lines.
Like everything, these components are all subject to wear and tear over time, so you should know the average lifespan of each one.
Components
The lifespan of each component on an AC unit varies depending on how often it’s used and how well it’s maintained. Let’s take a close look at how each AC component functions, how you maintain them, and how long they last.
The compressor
The compressor is the heart of the air conditioning system, and it pumps refrigerant through the AC unit. Compressors have an estimated lifespan of about 15-20 years, but they can start to fail sooner if it’s not maintained correctly.
To keep your compressor in good working condition, be sure to have it regularly serviced by a trained technician.
It would help if you also made sure that the AC unit is properly charged with refrigerant, as this can help extend the compressor’s life.
The condenser coil
The condenser coil is responsible for dissipating heat from the refrigerant passing through the AC unit.
These coils have an estimated lifespan of about 15-20 years, but they can also fail prematurely if they’re not properly maintained.
To clean condenser coils, you’ll need to remove any dirt or debris built up. You can do this with a soft brush or by using compressed air.
Be sure to turn off the power to the AC unit before you begin cleaning the coils.
It’s also important to check the fins on the condenser coils for damage. If they’re bent or broken, you can use a fin comb to straighten them out.
The evaporator coil
The evaporator coil is responsible for absorbing heat from the air in your home and transferring it to the refrigerant. Ideally, these coils are also generally long-lived, with an estimated lifespan of about 15-20 years.
Evaporator coils can become dirty over time, leading to decreased efficiency and increased energy bills. In fact, they are known to start leaking at around 12 years of age.
To clean the evaporator coils, you’ll need to remove the access panel on the front of the coil. You can then use a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush to clean away dirt or debris.
Refrigerant lines
The refrigerant lines are responsible for carrying refrigerant between your AC system’s outdoor and indoor units. If well taken care of, these lines can last the lifetime of your AC unit.
Don’t forget to make sure that the AC unit is properly charged with refrigerant, as this can help extend the system’s life.
Signs you should repair or replace your air conditioner:
While it’s a case to case basis, here are some general guidelines to help you decide whether it’s time to let go of your AC unit:
If your air conditioner is more than 12 years old
While an AC unit can last up to 20 years, most units start having problems after 12 years. If your unit is older than 12 years, it might be time for a replacement.
If your energy bills are increasing
When your energy bills are constantly increasing, even though you haven’t changed your habits, your AC unit may not be functioning as efficiently as it once did.
In this case, you might need to have the compressor or other parts repaired or replaced.
If you frequently have to repair your AC unit
If you find yourself constantly repairing your AC unit, it might be time for a replacement. The cost of repairs can add up over time, and a new air conditioner would likely be more energy efficient than your current one.
Benefits of repairing the components of your AC unit
If you’re leaning towards repairing parts of your AC unit, here are some benefits of repairing the components of your AC unit:
- You’ll save money – Repairing an AC unit is generally much cheaper than replacing it.
- You’ll extend the life of your air conditioner – If you replace parts prematurely, you could end up shortening the life of your entire AC system.
- Your AC will run more efficiently – When all the parts of an AC unit work well together, the whole system runs more efficiently. This can lead to reduced energy bills and a longer lifespan for your air conditioner.
Costs of repairing your AC unit:
One of the most critical deciding factors on whether you should repair or replace your AC unit is the cost. Here are some ballpark figures of repairing different parts of your AC unit:
Compressor: $600 – $1200
Refrigerant lines: $100 – $200
Evaporator coil: $300 – $400
Condenser coil: $300 – 400
Here are the estimated price ranges of replacing each part with a new one:
Compressor: $1000 – $4000
Refrigerant lines: $200 – $500
Evaporator coil: $400 – $800
Condenser coil: $600 – $1200
Remember that these costs are only a general estimate, and you need to speak with a professional to get more accurate figures.
Benefits of replacing your AC unit
Some people think repairing or parts replacement is too much trouble, so if you replace your entire AC unit, here are some of the benefits:
- You’ll have a new warranty – When you replace your AC unit, the manufacturer will often give you a new warranty for the unit.
- Your energy bills might go down – A newer, more energy-efficient AC unit might help reduce your energy bills.
- It’ll be easier to cool your home – If you’ve been struggling to keep your home cool, a replacement AC unit can make things much more comfortable.
Costs of replacing your entire AC unit:
Depending on the size and type of AC unit you choose, the cost of replacing your entire AC unit can range from $2000 – $6000. For example, a replacement AC unit for a single-family home can range from $2500 – $5000.
Budget Tips and Tricks
If you’re on a slightly tight budget, you might be wondering if there’s a way to get your AC unit repaired or replaced for cheaper. Here are some tips:
Get multiple estimates
When getting your AC unit repaired or replaced, be sure to get at least three estimates from different companies. This will help you compare prices and find the best deal.
Look for discounts
Always ask if the company offers any discounts. Many companies offer senior, military, or student discounts.
DIY
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might be able to replace some of the parts on your AC unit yourself (although we don’t recommend it if you’re not familiar with air conditioners). This could save you a significant amount of money on labor costs.
Replacing vs. Repairing: which is better for you?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to repair or replace your AC unit comes down to personal preference and budget constraints.
If you have the money and aren’t afraid of a little bit of hard work, replacing your entire AC unit is probably the best option. However, if you’re on a tight budget or don’t have the time to do the work yourself, repairing certain parts of your AC unit is a good alternative.
No matter what you decide, be sure to speak with the professionals at Air Conditioning Installation Repair Oakville to get more accurate information and advice on what’s best for your specific situation.
