If your cool is not cool enough in these hot Marietta temps, you most certainly will be contacting your local AC repair team. If you are like most homeowners, you didn't prepare for a AC breakdown or replacement. Often times, you could be faced with a hefty repair bill or HVAC estimate. How do you know what road to travel if you have an AC Breakdown-Repair or Replace?
While most repair recommendations can be performed, deciding whether the replacement option is better for your wallet and home is key. With different expert point of views, investing in your HVAC system can become confusing. Having no AC can create a sense of urgency that may cloud your decision making process. These tips will help prepare you, if and when you are faced with a repair or replace situation.
How Old Is Your Air Conditioner?
Most HVAC systems have a 10-15 year life span. This doesn't mean that when your HVAC system hits the 10 year mark, it is time to replace it. However, this is a good time to start preparing for the future cost. The last thing you want is to be blindsided with an AC breakdown!
Some factors you may want to consider with an older system are; the frequency of repairs, energy costs, and your comfort. If you find that your summer energy costs dramatically increase and your comfort is decreased, researching replacement options may be a good choice. Also consider the frequency of your repair costs, even though they may be significantly lower than an HVAC replacement.
What is the Frequency and Cost of Repairs?
Even though an AC breakdown repair bill may be lower than a potential replacement, if you find that you call out your AC technician to repair your system more than once a season, you may benefit from a new unit.
Consider your HVAC system like you would a vehicle. Depending on the age and type of car, you may opt to trade it in for a newer model. At one point, the mileage and age of your vehicle, combined with expensive repair costs may warrant a shiny new ride! Add on the benefits of a new warranty, better gas mileage and new car smell; you are ready to enjoy your fancy new car for years.
The same applies to your HVAC unit. You may be asked to pay costly repairs. Regardless, a shiny new HVAC system can offer you better air flow, increased comfort, a new warranty, and peace of mind! To make it easy, this broad spectrum formula may help you decide!
- Cost of Repair x Age of AC Unit < $5000 = Repair
- Cost of Repair x Age of AC Unit > $5000 = Replace
Should R-22 Influence Your Decision?
Yes! The phase out of R-22 has driven the costs of the refrigerant up to unrealistic costs! Especially recently with the rise of raw material costs, we're feeling the pain of price increases! HVAC units that were charged with R-22 refrigerant stopped production in 2010. The complete phase out of this refrigerant is mandated by the year 2020. On the other hand, there are comparable synthetic refrigerants for your R22 system, but it is strongly advised that you research the effects of these synthetic options.
If your system requires the addition of refrigerant, that means that there is a leak. As a result, the options for a system with a freon leak can be to replace the evaporator coil or replace the whole system. With R22 refrigerant being illegal as of January 1, 2020, it is suggested you strongly consider replacing your system. Respectively so, make sure to get a number of replacement estimates. Learn more about the R22 phase out here.
Hire a Company that has YOUR Best Interests in Mind
With so many options, it can be confusing which company truly has your best interests at hand. Rule of thumb, if you don't feel comfortable with the company that is presenting your repair and replacement estimates, get another's advice. Don't feel pushed or manipulated into making a quick decision. It is best to take a moment to re-evaluate the scenario and ask questions. Often times, salesmen count on your sense of urgency to push you into a sale. Maybe the costs or diagnosis just don't make sense. Use your instincts!
At Guardian, our no pressure sales and detailed diagnosis will make you feel at ease and without the worry of being pushed into a bad scenario. Most importantly, as a licensed, bonded and insured company that only hires the best of the best, you can feel confident that your best interests are at hand. Our goal is to keep you as our customer for years to come and not just repair and run. Creating long lasting relationships based on our expert service is how we do business! For instance, taking all the time you need to ask questions or even the time to make a decision, is not a problem for us! Our job is to provide you with the best solutions based on YOUR needs and not a sales goal!
Contact the experts at Guardian today to get your Free In Home Replacement Estimate scheduled. Have questions about a recent repair estimate. Give us a try! Schedule Online and save an additional 10% off of your repairs. 770-727-1888.
