SHOULD YOU REPAIR OR REPLACE YOUR AIR CONDITIONER IN BOZEMAN, MT?

A common dilemma among homeowners and businesses experiencing air conditioning issues is weighing the benefits of repairing your AC system or having it replaced. A closer look at the different factors involved in repair or replacement can help guide you in the decision-making process.

If a failing AC system no longer keeps your home or workplace comfortable, it may be time to consider an air conditioning replacement. An air conditioner 10 to 20 years old likely needs an upgrade. Newer models run more efficiently than older systems and can also reduce your monthly energy bills. A 20-year-old air conditioner might take about 6 kWh of electricity to cool down an average-sized house. But a new air conditioner can cool down the same house using 1.71 kWh of electricity. The reason is that two-stage scroll compressors have replaced old single-stage piston-driven compressors.

However, keep in mind that an AC replacement cost can range from $4,550 to $14,800 (including labor and permit fees). The price of a new HVAC unit or system varies based on the type of system you choose, efficiency rating, cooling or heating stages, unit size as well as where you live and the difficulty of the installation. Beyond Air conditioning equipment itself, several factors can affect air circulation such as ducts and insulation. Before spending money on an air conditioning replacement, you may want to consider having a professional take a look at your current system to determine whether a repair or replacement is your best option.

The older your air conditioner is, especially if it’s more than 10 years old, the sooner you should start thinking about replacing the equipment. An older system may frequently break down, and over time, the manufacturer may discontinue certain parts. Frequent maintenance can also add up quickly, making AC replacement more attractive.

Here are a few other indicators to look for:

1). INCREASED ENERGY BILLS

AC systems can lose efficiency over time and older units may use more electricity than they did when they were new. You may notice an increase in your energy bills as your AC unit becomes less efficient. Damage to the unit, such as a leak, could also cause the unit to work overtime to cool your home, which could raise your bill. Either way, expensive bills may be a good reason to purchase a new unit.

2). LOW SEER RATING

While a low SEER rating doesn’t always indicate inefficiency, you may want to consider an upgrade if your unit scores lower than the minimum standard rating of 13. A SEER rating measures the energy efficiency of air conditioning units. The minimum rating will increase in 2023, putting older units even further below standard.

3). R22 OR FREON® USE

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency phased out the use of R22 or Freon® in air conditioners in 2020. Freon® is a brand name of air conditioning refrigerant trademarked by DuPont. If your AC unit runs on R22 you should consider replacing it as you will not be able to access Freon when your unit needs a repair.

4). HIGH REPAIR COSTS

As your air conditioner ages, the unit may need repairs more often. If you feel that you’re putting too much time and money into frequent repairs, you may want to consider investing in a new unit. We’ll discuss the “$5,000 rule” in a later section.

5). AC REPLACEMENT COST

The cost to replace an AC unit would include the price of the unit plus installation fees. However, many variables would impact your final price such as:

• Your location
• Difficulty of installation
• Size of your home or business
• Potential ductwork modifications
• Needed electrical upgrades

Keep in mind that upgrading your AC unit, or any piece of your HVAC system, is an investment that will pay off over time.

Other considerations include:

The $5,000 rule: Multiply the age of your equipment by the estimated repair cost. If the number is more than $5,000, then you should consider replacing your unit. If it’s less, a repair may be the answer. For example, a system that is10 years old and has a repair cost of $300 = $3,000, it’s probably best to repair it. With a system that is 10 years old and has a repair cost of $600 = $6,000, you should probably consider a replacement.

6). EXISTING WARRANTIES

Air conditioner warranties from most manufacturers last five to 10 years. Your repair may be covered. If you’re the original owner of the unit, check the paperwork you receive upon installation for warranty information. You may also be able to look up your warranty on the manufacturer’s website using the unit’s serial number. New homeowners should check with the HVAC manufacturer to see if a warranty is transferred with the sale of the home.

7). FINANCIAL SAVINGS

Regular repairs and maintenance can extend the life of your AC unit. Servicing your AC unit once or twice a year and covering periodic repairs may be more affordable than buying a brand new system. However, a new AC unit would likely offer more savings in the long run if you can front the cost.

3 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE DECIDING TO REPAIR OR REPLACE YOUR AC SYSTEM 

When determining whether you need a full air conditioner replacement or a single repair, ask yourself the following key questions:

1). HOW OFTEN DOES YOUR AC UNIT BREAK DOWN?

Annual maintenance is common and recommended for AC units. If your equipment needs fixing more frequently, it may be more reasonable to purchase a new unit rather than paying for ongoing, expensive repairs. Be sure to consult with a licensed HVAC professional to inspect your AC unit and diagnose the issues.

2). DO YOU HAVE A MATCHED SYSTEM?

Air conditioning systems are generally made up of two matching components: an indoor furnace or air handler and an outdoor air conditioner or condensing unit. Replacing either the indoor or the outdoor unit without replacing the other could reduce the system’s overall efficiency and cause additional failure. If you need to replace your entire air conditioner, you will also likely need to replace the furnace to ensure you have a matching set.

3). ARE YOU READY TO MAKE AN INVESTMENT?

A new cooling system comes with significant upfront costs compared to a repair. While financing, coupons, and rebates are often available to offset these costs, you may want to consider AC system repair if you think your current unit has the potential to work efficiently and effectively while lasting for a long period of time.

THE BENEFITS OF SWITCHING TO A NEW AC SYSTEM  

There are many benefits to replacing a low-efficiency air conditioner with a highly-rated model. Upgrades to internal parts make it much more worthwhile to get a new unit. From a cooler home to substantial energy savings, you’ll reap the benefits of a new system immediately.

1). NEW PURCHASE INCENTIVES

Air conditioners with excellent SEER ratings will often come with purchase incentives. Some utility companies offer rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient equipment. In certain states, installing an air conditioner with a high SEER rating can make you eligible for tax breaks. Check with your utility company to see if you’re qualified.

2). BETTER SIZING FOR YOUR HOME

An improperly sized air conditioner boosts your utility bills significantly. A too-small system will frequently run, causing mechanical problems early on, while an oversized unit will cool air ineffectively. If your old unit is the wrong size for your home, upgrading will resolve performance issues. With a reliable, professional installation, HVAC technicians will ensure you get the most efficient air conditioner that meets your home’s cooling needs.

3). HIGHER ENERGY-EFFICIENCY

New AC models have much higher energy efficiency ratings than your 20-year-old system. If your current AC unit has a SEER rating of ten or lower, you’re wasting money while cooling your home. Modern AC systems use much less electricity to cool your home. You could improve energy efficiency by up to 58% by switching to a SEER 25 model. Even switching to a SEER 13 model will boost efficiency by nearly 25%.

4). COST AND ENERGY SAVINGS

You’ll notice the financial benefits and energy savings shortly after getting a new AC unit. Differences in SEER ratings contribute to excellent electricity savings. Even if your unit already has a decent SEER rating, you can still save significantly. Swapping your SEER 14 unit for a unit with a rating of 19 or higher can bring savings between 26% and 42%.

Many of the newer heating and cooling systems have smart features and are compatible with your smartphone or computer. In addition to the high SEER rating, you’ll save energy with these features. Your air conditioner’s smart thermostat can schedule the air to come on at certain times, helping you save even more on energy.

5). REPLACE R-22 WITH R410A REFRIGERANT

In 2010, the EPA banned the production of any new systems that used R-22 due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer. They also mandated a ban on manufacturing or importing the chemical itself in 2020. Freon is the common name for HCFC-22 and R-22, the chemicals that were used in AC units over the past decades.

If you have an older system, look for the sticker on the side. Your system uses the older coolant that the EPA is phasing out if it says HCFC-22 or R-22. If your system is running smoothly, you don’t need to change a thing. However, if you have a leak or other issue, a replacement R-22 will be hard to find and expensive. Replacing your unit now might be worthwhile since you’ll have to do so later.

6). QUIETER OPERATIONS

Old AC models are disruptive and cause significant noise, making it difficult to enjoy the time you spend outside. New fan blade shapes and redesigned compressors make quiet operations possible and many smart models are practically silent. Getting the right size will also decrease fan and compressor volume if you currently have a noisy, oversized cooling system.

CONCLUSION

If your AC system is older, requires frequent repairs, and is no longer covered by warranty, consider buying a replacement. A newer and more energy-efficient model can lower your utility costs and cut down on the number of repairs you will need, saving you money in the long run. To help you make the right decision for your home or business, consider having an HVAC professional inspect your AC unit and diagnose the issues that you are dealing with.

COMFORT SYSTEMS OF MONTANA – HVAC REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT

Founded in 1999, Comfort Systems of Montana has grown to become one of the area’s leading heating and cooling companies. We work with all types of cooling systems, including central air conditioners, ductless mini-splits, and heat pumps. Whether you are in need of a heating and cooling system replacement or repair, we are here to help! We proudly serve the HVAC needs of homes and businesses in Big Sky, Bozeman, Livingston, and surrounding communities. Make an appointment for an HVAC consultation to get started today!