HVAC Repair vs. Replacement – What is the Difference?

If your HVAC has broken down or you have started noticing it not as spry as it used to be, you might be contemplating between your replacements vs. repair needs.

Is repair a perfect option? Or is it too soon to replace your HVAC unit?

Well, to determine whether you need to replace or repair your HVAC system, there are several considerations you must look at:

When to Consider Replacement

There are situations in which it might be best to consider replacing your HVAC. For instance, if the cost of the repairs is more than half the price of a new unit, then it will be best to think of replacing the unit. Often, outdated HVAC units require frequent repairs, and parts should be replaced. With time, the costs will increase, and new units can save you some cash in buying parts of the unit and labor needed to replace them.

If your unit is more than ten years old, you might want to replace the system. An HVAC unit loses energy efficiency with time, costing you in the long run. The best way to save on your energy bills is to get a new one. A reputable local contractor who uses solutions like HVAC Software can help you choose the right system for your needs. Apart from these signs, you can consider replacing your unit if:

  • The unit makes too much noise
  • There is a frequency of repairs

When to Repair

Having your unit repaired can turn out to be one of the most complicated jobs. An HVAC repair is also a delicate task and one best left for experts to handle. One of the steps involving repairing a unit is to diagnose the issue.

This can be a variety of issues, including broken drain pumps, broken drain tubes, and a drain line flush, to name a few. Then, it will be a matter of addressing the issue without disrupting other parts of your unit.

Mostly, repair services can be all you need. It is a simple option with smaller price tags compared to HVAC replacements. Plus, repairing means you will just pay for the services, not for a new HVAC unit.

However, it might be difficult for a novice to tell when your unit requires repairs. One common scenario where HVAC repairs work is when they are not expensive. It will be worth it if HVAC repairs are just a couple of dollars. Getting a new system is an investment, costing you thousands of money.

If you own a new HVAC unit, which is just five years or less, it is not advisable to get a new one. Remember, most HVAC units last from 12 to 18 years. So you still have a long way to go before you replace your unit with a new one. If you are also dealing with the following, you can just repair the unit:

  • Dirty filters
  • Worn contactor
  • Damaged compressors

The Takeaway!

If you choose to conduct repairs, consider calling your HVAC technician and letting them know that you are ready to have your unit fixed. But if you choose to go through the replacement process, be sure to set an appointment with an expert to get the total costs and choose the right unit to replace your current system with.

Post Author: Katherine Warren

Katherine@goodtechsystems.com'