AC Repair vs AC Replacement: Pros and Cons

Did the beginning of this cooling season start a little differently than normal? If switching the thermostat from heat to cool didn’t result in a steady rush of cool air and the spring started with an AC repair, you might be wondering whether your faithful old air conditioner will last the entire summer. Come to think of it, how do you determine when to repair and when to replace the HVAC system? Here are a few things to help you make this decision.

A great start is to gather some basic information about your air conditioning system. When was your air conditioner installed? Have you maintained maintenance and repair records? These pieces will be a great help when it comes to making AC repair or AC replacement decisions.

Reasons to Repair and Retain

• The cost of cooling gradually rises as a system ages because the amount of electricity required increases. If the increase is not noticeable yet, it might be okay to wait a while.
• A newer system, less than 10 years old, might simply need repair at the start of the season. This is not necessarily a bad sign, but it bears watching. Persistent and rising repair costs are a leading indicator of the need for replacement.
• Eventually, the cost of repairs will rise to rival the cost of replacement. This is especially true when facing refrigerant replacement. Some of these gases have been deemed hazardous to the environment, especially the ozone layer. These gases are not being manufactured, so replacement from the existing stock can be expensive.

Armed with the basic information and these facts, deciding whether to repair or replace should be a little clearer. If you decide to keep your current system through the cooling season, make sure to replace the air filter and schedule a maintenance visit from your factory-trained Trane representative to ensure good performance. Use this time to plan budget adjustments to prepare for eventual replacement.

Reasons to Replace the System

• An air conditioning system is a mechanical building system that uses chemical and electrical technology. Since Texas summers are quite hot, the air conditioner is called upon frequently to cool, clean, and dehumidify the air indoors. Like every mechanical system, your air conditioner has a limited lifespan; the average air conditioner system lasts between 15 and 20 years. Your basic information will help you evaluate your system according to age.
• Minor failures, such as higher humidity, musty smells, or failure to keep up with extreme temperatures.
• Remember that eventually, the cost of repairs, including replacing outdated refrigerants, will rise to rival the cost of replacement. Don’t only consider the most recent high repair bill, but also consider the accumulation of repairs.

A new system will include cutting-edge technology and be much more energy-efficient than an old system. Consider some auxiliary options—ultra-violet lights in the ductwork to neutralize living organisms among the airborne particles or a Smart thermostat that allows setting changes from a mobile phone. These enhancements will be beneficial for the life of your new system.

AC Repair vs AC Replacement: Pros and Cons

Specific training and equipment are required for AC repair and AC replacement. To find a local Trane HVAC Repair technician, visit our Local Dealer search tool.