To Replace or Repair That Old Refrigerated Air System…That is the Question

Written by Total Air on 06/20/2017. Posted in Blog

Total Air talks a lot about the benefits of converting from evaporative cooler to refrigerated air, but there are many homeowners in El Paso and Las Cruces who have already done so and are questioning when is it time to replace their HVAC system, especially if presented with an expensive repair estimate.

The infographic below is a good quick reference guide to answer that question. But there are other considerations. Here, Total Air also lists some things you may not have thought about as you ponder this question. They are:

1. Age: Most premium refrigerated air systems come with 10-year manufacturer warranty on major working parts. But, with regular preventive maintenance, it is likely that an HVAC system can last 4 to 7 years longer. If your AC system is older than 10 years and has not been properly maintained, it is probably best to replace it, especially if you are looking at costly repairs. If it has been maintained yearly, 10 years should not be the replacement guideline. A simple repair may be in order.
2. Efficiency: Recent advances in A/C technology have greatly improved energy efficiency…and that means more utility savings. Only a few years ago, 10 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) was the minimum energy rating on AC. Today, 14 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the minimum…and systems are available up to 20+ SEER. The higher the SEER rating, the more utility savings. And, the amount of utility savings on today’s higher efficiency HVAC systems yields a quicker payoff of a new installation. Something to consider if replacing will save you a lot on your energy bills.
3. R-22 Refrigerant: HVAC manufacturers stopped making air conditioning units “charged” with R-22 in 2010. Today, R-22 has many restrictions, not to mention prices have soared in recent years due to the EPA's eventual phaseout (production will completely end 2020). If you have a system using R-22 refrigerant, you have no choice but to replace.
4. Length of stay: Do you know how long are you planning to stay in the house that is looking at the repair or replacement? There are arguments for both sides. If you are planning to move soon and you don’t want to make a large investment in the HVAC system, than a repair should be considered. However, if you don’t have a good working AC, you may not be able to sell that house at the price you want to list. Both arguments have value…this decision is up to you.

But, the best way to answer the “repair or replace” question of your existing A/C, is to schedule an inspection with a Total Air expert technician. The nominal costs for our repair estimates or one of our FREE new system estimates, is worth the price and peace of mind for knowing if you should repair or replace your HVAC system.

You can schedule an appointment at www.totalairep.com/contact or give Total Air a call at 915-585-0909.