Warning Signs You Need an AC Replacement
Living in Texas, you probably rely on your air conditioning to keep you comfortable all year. That means that when something is wrong, you want it fixed right away. Wondering whether your AC unit needs repairing or replacing altogether? Here are three signs that you need an AC replacement.
1. Your AC Unit Is Really Old
This one goes without saying. The older your unit, the more likely it needs to be replaced. Energy Star recommends replacing units that are more than 10 years old. AC units are subject to gradual wear and tear like any other mechanical unit. While certain parts can be replaced and malfunctions can be fixed, nothing lasts forever.
2. You Have to Repair Your Unit Frequently
If you have needed to have your unit repaired multiple times in the past, then it’s probably time to get a new one. The cost of getting a new unit can wind up being cheaper than continually repairing an old one. When repairs are necessary, you can conduct an informal calculation known as “the $5,000” rule to determine whether the price is right. Multiply the age of your unit by the repair cost. If this number exceeds $5,000, you should get a new unit.
For example, your unit is 10 years old and the repair cost is $510. Applying the $5,000 rule leads us to a figure of $5,050, meaning in this example it’s better to just get a new unit.
3. Your AC Uses R-22 Refrigerant
Older AC units use R-22 refrigerant, which has been found to take an extreme toll on the environment. R-22 produces ozone and pollutes the air, and the EPA has found this substance to be bad enough to be phased out of use in appliances.
Because the EPA chose to accelerate its phase-out of R-22, the prices for this refrigerant are very high, if it can even be found. For that reason alone, upgrading your AC unit is worth it if it’s still running on R-22. Doing so is not only the right thing environmentally, but it is also the right thing to do economically for yourself.
[copmany_name] is a leading provider of heating and cooling systems in north central Texas. Contact Ken Parker Service, Inc. today to schedule an appointment for AC replacement or repair.
