To Repair or Replace Your AC, That is the Question

When it comes down to the question of repairing or replacing your old AC unit, for most homeowners it boils down to dollars and cents.

Follow these guidelines and make it easier for yourself when making this purchase decision.

If you have an old system, like 10 to 15 years or older it’s nearly guaranteed to save you money by replacement. The technology has simply changed. The refrigerant used isn’t old style ozone reducing chlorofluorocarbon. New systems use less than half the electricity saving you money while still keeping you just as cool.

If your unit is 8 years or younger it may be better to weigh out the options. Have your contractor weigh out and compare the replace vs. repair decision for you into pros and cons. You need a good assessment of the condition of the equipment, how well it has been maintained, and to also check the ducts and insulation in the home and look for places where efficiency could be increased and your power bill could be lowered.

AC units operate on a SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating Ratio). Up till 2006, a 10 was standard. Now minimum allowed for new units is a 13. Translated that means 30% less energy used. Jumping up to a 16 SEER can reduce cooling costs by 60% over a 10 rating.  These super efficient units are more costly upfront. But, they do qualify at tax time for a federal tax credit as well as local incentives. They will also save you thousands of dollars on electricity over the lifetime ownership of the house as well as boost the value if you decide to resell.

If you do invest in a new unit. Make sure you also allow All Day Air Cooling to go over the duct work and insulation. It will do you no good to have the top of the line unit if you have leaks and cracks working against you in every corner and room.

Working with the professionals is key. The contracting bid needs to include load calculations showing how big of a system your home needs and why. Not every home needs the same sized unit. Too big of a unit is a total waste of money and leads to inefficiency. Too small of a unit will also not work properly.

AC units are measured by the TON. A Ton is the cooling power a one-ton block of ice melting in a 24 hour period could produce back in the olden days. It is approximately 1 ton for every 400-600 ft of living space. Using this simple old school calculation isn’t enough. Sophisticated software now adds to the benefit adding in things like the number of windows, insulation thickness, attic space, sun orientation, and more. Oversizing a unit cycles it on and off too frequently and leads to burn out and loss of longevity.

If you are looking for the best advice as to whether to repair or replace call us. All Day Air Cooling and Heating are here to help you. We want you, our Florida neighbors, to be cool and comfortable year round. (239) 357-0727 or visit us online at www.alldayaircooling.com.

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