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The choice between repairing your air conditioner to breathe new life into it or investing in a new unit can be tough. Your decision can have implications for your budget, comfort, operating costs, and home value. Whichever route you take, Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is the professional company to turn to for your AC unit repair or replacement in Riverside.
When to Repair Your Air Conditioner
One of the top reasons why Riverside homeowners opt to replace their air conditioning units is age. Old appliances tend to break down without notice, and often, it can happen frequently. However, this issue can also happen to new air conditioners as well.
Sometimes, repairing the air conditioner is the answer, rather than buying a new one. In certain situations, such as those below, contacting an HVAC technician to fix the problem is the better solution.
1. Minor Issues
A clogged air filter, a faulty capacitor, and refrigerant leaks are some minor issues an experienced professional can quickly address. Coil corrosion, for instance, is a frequent problem for specific AC models and older units. Corroded coils lead to reduced cooling, which is a problem with low refrigerant levels caused by a refrigerant leak. A recharge of the refrigerant can help ensure optimal system performance.
The capacitor part of the unit facilitates the running of the fan motors and compressor. Often, the solution is to replace the capacitor regularly. However, an experienced HVAC professional can quickly determine the problem and provide a fix right away.
2. New vs Old Unit
If your unit is still new or has been well-maintained, you typically will not have any issues with it – until you do. Repairing, in this case, makes absolute sense, depending on the problem, of course. Under normal circumstances, a new unit will work without issues. However, if problems do arise, a replacement is generally unnecessary unless the repair is not covered by the warranty or the repair costs end up being exceptionally high.
Meanwhile, an older unit may prompt you to buy a new one if it frequently malfunctions. Before you decide on a replacement, though, think about the last few times you ran the AC. Was it performing normally and efficiently before the problem occurred? If so, repairing it may be the correct answer over a replacement. This is why regular checks and maintenance by a professional are the keys to extending the life of your system.
3. Budget Concerns
Replacing your air conditioner is not exactly a cheap undertaking. It can be a significant investment because of the associated costs of buying and installing the new unit. If replacing your existing system is not feasible due to budget constraints, consider getting it repaired instead. Of course, this choice will depend on the problem and your unit. It may be more practical to buy a new AC than to have it repaired if the cost difference between the two is minimal.
4. Part of a System
Is your air conditioner a part of a complex HVAC system? In this situation, HVAC professionals suggest a professional repair service, which is a much more economical option.
Is It Time for a Replacement?
In many cases, repairing your air conditioner is the better, more suitable choice. If you are worried about the cost of a new unit, you might immediately call for a quick repair. However, some issues require a replacement instead.
Old Units
If your air conditioner has operated for over 10 years, it may be time for a replacement. While many well-maintained air conditioners can remain functional after 15 years, the issues become more frequent and complex. With the rising and compounding repair costs, a replacement is clearly the more practical option.
Reduced Efficiency
A common sign that it might be time to replace your AC is that its performance is declining. No matter the model, quality, and cost, all units will lose efficiency over time. A new unit may be the answer if you notice uneven temperatures and a decline in cooling output, coupled with consistently increasing energy bills.
Unsupported Technologies
Some technologies are no longer supported by manufacturers and technicians. This makes it challenging to repair an older unit. For example, if your AC has been around for more than 10 years, it likely has unsupported technologies, such as analog or mercury-based thermostats and single-speed compressors. With a new model, you do not have to worry about the use of obsolete refrigerants like R-22 or Freon, known for their ozone-depleting properties.
Operating Issues
Other signs that it may be time to say goodbye to your air conditioner include excessive noise whenever it is running and inconsistent cooling. Consider upgrading to a larger unit if you plan to add more rooms or renovate your Riverside home.
Cost
Upgrading to a newer model is the more cost-effective route. The last thing you want is to spend a lot of money repairing your faulty AC unit with likely unsupported technology. It is advisable to consider replacing a system if the repair cost exceeds half of the expense of installing a new one. Over time, a newer system will run better, helping control energy costs.
Turn to Trustworthy HVAC Specialists in Riverside
When it comes to your HVAC requirements, Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing has an experienced team that can ensure your home’s heating and cooling system’s efficiency. We have a crew of HVAC experts dedicated to providing reliable repair and installation services. With our years of experience, we can handle a wide range of air conditioning issues from faulty components like expansion valves, compressors, and fan motors to more complex repairs.
We also provide professional installation services, offering you a seamless experience. We strive to do the task quickly and avoid delays as much as possible. That way, you can return to your daily routine with little to no interference. It is our mission to bring the latest in HVAC technology so you truly enjoy comfort in your own home. We also offer heating products, namely heat pumps, ductless mini splits, and furnaces that we can install, repair, and maintain as well.
Choosing Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to install your new system helps ensure that you have a team of skilled professionals. We understand the importance of properly installing the right air conditioner to fully take advantage of its optimal performance. Our technicians will conduct the initial assessment and help you make a suitable choice for your space. We will then install the unit and take care of its final calibration. Our process helps guarantee all aspects are covered, including energy efficiency, which is essential for less energy consumption and reduced environmental impact.
Are you ready to transform your space with a reliable air conditioning system installation? Or do you need a quick repair? If you have an existing one that requires a professional eye to check for and fix issues, call us! Sheldon's Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is your partner in your HVAC needs in Riverside that prioritizes functionality, sustainability, and efficiency.
