If your AC system is constantly breaking down and requiring costly repairs, it may be time to consider replacing it. But how do you know when it is worth the investment?
Several factors should be considered. A few of them include: the age of your unit, repair costs and energy efficiency. Contact the professionals at Air Conditioning Replacement Loveland OH.
Air conditioning replacement is a major investment. However, it may be cheaper in the long run than continuing to pay for expensive repairs. You also have the option of applying for financing to make the initial cost more manageable.
On average, an HVAC system lasts about 15 years. However, this lifespan can vary depending on usage and the climate where the house is located. Many homeowners will opt for a new AC unit when their existing one has reached the end of its life and no longer offers reliable service.
If your home’s energy bills have been steadily increasing, it could be a sign that your HVAC system is at the end of its useful life. Your energy bills should fluctuate somewhat with different seasons, but they should stay roughly the same unless there are other reasons for them to rise.
The cost of your replacement can depend on the type of AC unit you choose, installation costs, and the price of labor. You should always compare prices from several companies to find the best deal and avoid overpaying.
You’ll likely need to have your ductwork replaced as well if you’re replacing your AC unit. A professional should be able to tell you whether this is necessary or not. The ductwork is responsible for circulating cool air throughout your home, so it needs to be properly insulated and sealed to ensure the temperature remains consistent.
An old or worn-out thermostat can also increase your HVAC replacement costs. On average, installing a new thermostat costs between $120 and $260. Programmable and smart thermostats are on the higher end of this range. Additionally, you might need to hire a company to remove and dispose of your existing thermostat if it’s not easily accessible.
A clogged air filter or a leaky compressor can also drive up your HVAC replacement costs. Depending on the severity of the issue, a professional might recommend that you replace your AC unit altogether rather than making a few repair attempts. However, this is only an option if your system still has some life left in it and you can’t afford to keep paying for costly repairs.
Energy Efficiency
Air conditioners consume a lot of energy to keep our homes cool. But they also consume a lot of money in the form of eye-popping electricity bills. And that’s even before your AC unit breaks down. Fortunately, an efficient new system will not only help you save money on your energy bills but can boost your home’s resale value too.
If your old air conditioning unit is older than 10 years, it’s probably time to invest in a replacement that offers superior energy efficiency. In fact, a new AC unit will use less energy than your old one did in order to deliver the same level of cooling, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
The main reason for the difference is that new AC units are designed to run more efficiently. They have components that reduce friction and wear, which helps them to operate at lower temperatures. Plus, they feature a better compressor that works at reduced levels of power during most of the time, transitioning to full power only when it’s necessary.
In addition, new air conditioning units often require fewer repairs and service calls. That’s a big benefit if you are looking to avoid the cost and inconvenience of ongoing AC repairs.
When choosing a new AC unit, you’ll want to ensure it has the proper tonnage for your home and that it matches the recommended SEER rating for your region. You’ll also want to ensure that your ductwork is properly installed. A poorly functioning ductwork can greatly decrease the efficiency of your entire home’s heating and cooling system.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that many states offer special rebates for the purchase of high-efficiency systems. Galmiche & Sons can help you find the energy efficient AC unit that meets your needs and your state’s rebate program requirements.
Another important consideration is that some new air conditioners have been engineered to eliminate the need for hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant, also known as R-22. HCFC is an ozone-destroying greenhouse gas. As such, manufacturers have been required to phase out R-22 production. If your current air conditioner uses R-22, you’ll need to replace it with a unit that is compliant with the latest ozone standards.
Lifespan
As with any household system, the lifespan of an AC unit is finite. While you may be able to extend the useful life of your current unit with frequent repairs, there comes a point when it’s time for a replacement. Understanding the average lifespan of an air conditioner will help you make the best decision for your home.
There are many factors that play a role in the lifespan of an AC unit, including maintenance, climate, and unit quality. Performing routine maintenance like changing your air filters, cleaning the outdoor unit, and scheduling yearly service checks can help to extend the lifespan of your system. Choosing a high-quality unit will also extend the lifespan of your AC.
In addition, the type of cooling system you choose will play a role in how long your unit lasts. For example, central air systems typically have a longer lifespan than window or portable units. Also, higher-efficiency models tend to have a longer lifespan than older units.
If you’re spending a lot of money on repairs for your AC, it may be time to consider replacing it. Although frequent repairs are a normal part of owning a home appliance, excessive costs can indicate that it’s past its prime.
Another sign that it’s time to replace your air conditioning is if your energy bill has been rising each summer. This could be due to your air conditioner having to work harder to keep your home cool, or it might be caused by air leaks in your house.
Depending on the age and condition of your current AC unit, you may be able to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model or opt for a hybrid system. These systems use a combination of heat pumps and conventional fuel sources to reduce your energy consumption. This can reduce your monthly bills and lower the overall carbon footprint of your home. Alternatively, you can opt for an air conditioner with built-in smart thermostat technology, which will automatically adjust your temperature settings to save energy. This is a great way to save on energy costs while still enjoying a comfortable home.
Warranty
Most HVAC equipment manufacturers offer a warranty that covers any parts in the unit that might break down. However, there are many factors that can void this limited warranty. For example, improper installation can void the warranty on a new unit. This is why you should always choose a reputable HVAC contractor. Your HVAC contractor should also provide their own warranty for their services. The best contractors will be confident enough in their work to stand behind it with a solid warranty on any repairs they perform.
Generally, there are two types of warranties for an air conditioning replacement: an equipment warranty and a labor warranty. An equipment warranty is typically provided by the manufacturer of the new unit, while a labor warranty is usually offered by the HVAC installation company. Having both can help you avoid paying for expensive repair and replacement costs down the road.
The main difference between an equipment warranty and a labor warranty is that an equipment warranty will only cover the cost of a new part if it breaks down due to a manufacturer’s defect or poor workmanship. A labor warranty, on the other hand, will cover the cost of a service call to fix a broken appliance. This can save you a lot of money when it comes to an AC replacement.
A warranty will only be valid if it is registered with the manufacturer within a certain time frame. This can be a problem if you sell your home before the warranty expires. In this case, you may be able to transfer the warranty to a new owner.
While a manufacturer’s warranty can be a good option, a home warranty is usually the better choice because it offers more coverage. A home warranty covers multiple appliances and systems in your house, including your AC.
While an equipment warranty is only valid for new HVAC units, a home warranty can be used on any existing system or appliance. A home warranty is also more affordable, especially when you compare the prices of an AC replacement and a typical homeowner’s insurance premium.