Do you know the signs that indicate your air conditioner needs AC repair or replacement? Texas Strong Mechanical shares tips on how to recognize the signs and when to choose repair or replacement for your ac unit.
Do You Need AC Repair or Replacement?
When your AC system begins to act up, you might feel some confusion about whether it’s time to hire an HVAC repair service or if you need to invest in a whole new air conditioner. Thankfully, there are a few tips you can use to determine which service you need to stay comfortable.
Signs You Need AC Repair Services
The signs that you may only need a simple AC repair service include the following:
- Strange noises coming from the unit while it runs.
- Evidence of refrigerant leaks.
- Air doesn’t feel as cold as it should for the temperature setting.
- A noticeable loss of airflow.
- The air coming from the unit has a strange scent.
Many of these indicators are symptoms of part failure that a knowledgeable HVAC technician can address with a basic repair service. Your skilled technician will inspect the system and diagnose the issue to fully repair the unit and restore normal operation.
Repair costs can change depending on what is broken. Here are some common price ranges:
- Minor Fixes: Things like a bad capacitor or a clogged drain line usually cost between $150 and $400.
- Medium Repairs: Replacing a fan motor or fixing a small leak can cost $500 to $1,000.
- Major Repairs: Replacing an evaporator coil or a compressor can cost $1,500 to $3,500.
- Tip: If your repair cost is higher than $1,500, you should consider putting that money toward a new system instead.
Signs You Need AC Replacement Service
In some cases, repair services won’t be enough to keep your air conditioning system running. When it’s time to replace your AC unit, you will see signs that include the following:
- Constant need for repairs that begin to add up quickly.
- Your system still uses R22 freon (phased out of use as of 2020).
- The AC system has a seasonal energy efficiency ratio of 13 or less.
- Your energy bill keeps rising, although you aren’t using additional appliances.
- The AC unit is over 10 years old.
These symptoms of a failing air conditioner indicate your system is ready for a complete replacement service. Old units simply aren’t as energy-efficient, and you might not be able to find parts or refrigerants for these outdated systems. Ask your HVAC technician for more information on modern AC units.
Another method to determine if you need to invest in a new air conditioner is to multiply the age of your current system by the cost of the repairs it needs to run. If the sum of the equation comes to a number greater than 5,000, it’s time to replace the unit.
In Texas, air conditioners work much harder than in other states. Because of this, they wear out faster:
- 10 to 12 Years: This is when most AC units in Houston start to fail.
- 15 Years: If your unit is this old, it is very likely to break down and uses much more electricity than new models.
- Warning Signs: If your unit still uses R-22 refrigerant (Freon), it is outdated and should be replaced.
Waiting until your AC completely dies can lead to big problems:
- Emergency Costs: You may have to pay extra for a “rush” installation during a heatwave.
- Higher Bills: An old, struggling AC uses much more power, costing you more every month.
- Potential Damage: A failing unit can leak water, which may cause mold or damage your ceiling.
- No Choice: If you wait until it breaks, you might have to pick whatever unit is in stock instead of the one that is best for your home.
Book Professional AC Services
Do you have concerns about your current air conditioning system? Do you need to schedule fast and friendly AC repair services? Contact the team at Texas Strong Mechanical by dialing (832) 419-4488 and request an appointment with local and knowledgeable HVAC professionals.
