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Air Conditioning – Repair or Replace?

Should I repair or replace my air conditioner?

High efficiency modern AC-heater unit

There are several factors that play a role in determining if an air conditioning system should be repaired or replaced, and depending on the cost of repairing vs. replacing your air conditioner, it’s most important to consider the overall benefits of choosing one service over the other. Finances are often the primary concern when deciding which route to choose, but considering the outcome and potential long-term savings of either investment, along with other influences, will ultimately make the decision-making process an easy one.

Some important factors to take into consideration when deciding on whether to repair or replace your AC system include:

  • Age of Air Conditioner:  An AC system has an average life expectancy of 10 – 15 years. Over time, an air conditioner will become less efficient and may require regular repairs to keep it functioning. If your air conditioner is older than 10 years and isn’t cooling properly, we recommend replacing with a high-efficiency, Energy Star qualified air conditioner system to improve efficiency and operation. In doing so, you can save upwards of 20% on cooling costs.
  • Type of Refrigerant:  Refrigerant is a substance used by the condenser and coil to remove heat from the air, providing a cooling effect. Most older AC units require a refrigerant called R-22, which according to the EPA, can be harmful to the environment. The EPA has mandated that R-22 be phased out in 2020, therefore, R-22 is only available is through recycling, making it extremely expensive. When an air conditioner requires R-22 refrigerant, it’s most advantageous to replace that unit with a more cost-effective and eco-friendly model.
  • Excessive AC Repairs:  If your current air conditioner requires frequent service and repairs, or it’s simply not performing, then it’s time to consider replacing it. While AC replacement may cost more initially, consider how much can be saved, over time, by having a new air conditioner installed. Outside of annual maintenance and tune-ups, you won’t have to worry about excessive breakdowns and repair costs, and with the warranties provided on a new air conditioner, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that a new AC system might be the best return on investment.
  • Inconsistency:  Does your air conditioner run all day? Have your cooling bills far exceeded previous years’ costs? Do some rooms in the home stay hotter, while others are much cooler? Is the current AC system not adequate to meet the needs of the household? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then chances are, you might want to consider upgrading your air conditioner system.

There are many benefits to having an old AC system replaced. Those benefits include:

  • Eco-Friendly – New air conditioning models use newer, environmentally friendly refrigerant. Having a new AC system installed will not only help protect the ozone, but will cut down on energy consumption, providing a win-win for the environmentally conscious consumer.
  • Cost Efficient – Not only can you reduce spending on costly service and repairs when you upgrade your old air conditioner, you can greatly reduce the cost of energy bills in the summer.
  • Air Comfort – A new AC will provide added temperature control and reduce humidity, keeping air quality and comfort at the levels you deserve.
  • Warranties – New air conditioning systems come with factory warranties, so in the unlikely event that your new AC has any issues, part replacements and repairs are covered.
  • Tax Credits – Many high-efficiency and Energy Star rated AC systems offer tax incentives and credits. Do your research and talk about the available options with your HVAC technician to choose the best model for your household.

AC replacement isn’t always the best option. It’s best to choose AC repairs if:

Air Conditioning Repair
  • Relocating:  If moving is in your near future and your AC is having some issues, but it still works, then AC repairs would probably be your ideal option. Hiring an HVAC professional is your best bet in determining if repairs will be sufficient to keep the AC system operating proficiently.
  • Newer AC System:  When the air conditioner is newer and has a lot of life left in it, repairs are the most cost-effective measure and make the most sense.
  • Annual AC Service:  Preventative HVAC maintenance goes a long way in keeping an air conditioner running properly. If you have your system annually serviced and have had minimal issues, then it’s likely that any current issues could easily be corrected with parts replacement or repairs.
  • Repair Costs:  When the costs to repair an AC system doesn’t exceed half of the system’s value, repairing the system can be much lighter on the pocketbook than replacement.

Longmont’s Trusted AC Repair and Installation Pro

The most effective way to determine whether your air conditioner needs repairs or replacement is to hire an experienced air conditioning technician. Viking Mechanical Services, LLC and our team of HVAC techs are fully licensed and insured. We provide quality air conditioning maintenance, repair, and installation services for customers in Longmont, Boulder, Louisville and throughout the surrounding communities. With over 20 years in the heating, air conditioning, and plumbing industries, you can depend on Viking Mechanical Services, LLC for all your residential and commercial HVAC and plumbing needs.

With summer right around the corner, now is the best time for an air conditioner tune-up. Viking Mechanical Services, LLC provides comprehensive AC inspections and tune-ups which optimize the AC system’s performance. If we identify potential issues with the AC, we offer sound recommendations and options that fit within the needs of your home comfort and budget. For dependable AC maintenance, repairs, and replacement or installation, whether AC mini split systems or conventional condensers and coils, Viking Mechanical Services, LLC has got you covered when it comes to air conditioning!

Call or Text a Viking Today

If you live in Boulder, Longmont, Loveland or throughout Northern Colorado and need the expertise of a professional HVAC company for your AC service needs, contact the pros at Viking! We offer free estimates and second opinions, and we guarantee all our work. With some of the best warranties in the industry, you can’t go wrong with Viking Mechanical Services! Don’t forget to ask about our AC specials!!!