If you’ve lived in this area for even just a year, then you know just how sweltering our summers get. Therefore, you need a reliable and efficient air conditioner to get you through. This means that if you’ve come across this blog post, in the middle of summer, then you probably need help fast.
Maybe you’re wondering if you should call for repair, or if it’s finally time to replace your aging air conditioner. Whichever Mandeville, LA air conditioning service you need, the team here at Professional Heating & Air is here to help. We are available to provide any repairs you need for your air conditioner, as well as advise you on your replacement options.
Of course, except in the case of a total air conditioner breakdown, repairs are always a possibility. But repairs aren’t always the most economical decision, especially when it comes to an aging system. Read on to learn when it’s reasonable to invest in a repair, and when it’s a better choice to consider an air conditioner upgrade.
Repairs Can Be the Right Answer When…
Your air conditioner isn’t a decade old yet and is routinely receiving professional maintenance.
The service life of the average air conditioner is about 10-15 years old, but this only applies if your air conditioner is properly maintained. This means that every year (or twice a year, in the case of a heat pump system), you have a professional closely inspect, clean, and adjust the components that need it.
It’s during these maintenance tune-ups that our technicians check for signs of natural wear and tear, plus any other problems that can crop up throughout the year. We’ll alert you to any repair need right away, so you can schedule them ASAP. However, it’s possible that wear and tear can cause problems between maintenance sessions. Maintenance prevents up to 85% of repair expenses, but you’ll eventually need to have some components fixed or replaced.
It’s also wise to choose repair over replacement if the problem you’re experiencing is a minor one. For example, if a capacitor needs replacement or a motor bearing needs lubricating, then repair services make the most sense–it’s expected that you’ll need a small repair like this every few years.
Replacement Can Be the Right Answer When…
Your cooling system is 10-15 years old, is working inefficiently, and needs repairs on a frequent basis.
If you’ve discovered that you’re calling for AC repairs 2-3 times a year, and the system is over a decade old, plus it’s working inefficiently and causing a spike in your utility bills, then you’ll benefit from a new AC installation.
Today’s air conditioners are more efficient by nature than those of even just 5-10 years ago, which means you’ll save on your utility bills by replacing your current aging system. Also, today’s air conditioners use a safer and more eco-friendly refrigerant than those of a decade ago.
Professional maintenance helps air conditioners retain up to 95% of their original efficiency rating, but there is a limit to this. Eventually, components will wear down to the point that no repairs will help, and efficiency will start to decline. You’ll notice your utility bills increasing, your comfort decreasing, and more frequent repair needs.
Still unsure if replacement or repair is right in your specific scenario? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team!
When you need it done right call Professional Heating & Air!