Repair or Replace? A Homeowner’s Guide to AC Care
The age of your unit, its efficiency, repair costs and the Cincinnati climate all come into play when deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioner.
Age
If your AC is under 15 years old, repairing it is usually more cost-effective, providing the repair cost is reasonable.
Efficiency
If your AC still runs well without major spikes in your energy bill, repairing it is usually smart.
Repair Costs
When deciding whether an air conditioning repair is worth it, some Cincinnati area residents use the $5,000 rule:
Multiply the AC repair cost by the unit’s age. If the total is less than $5,000, repair is usually the better option. A $300 repair on a 7-year-old unit ($300 × 7 = $2,100) is probably a good idea. Keep in mind, this is just one scenario that may not work for every homeowner.
How much you pay for a repair will depend to a large degree on the type of problem you are having.
These repairs are usually not very expensive:
- Thermostat issues, which can be solved by recalibrating, or getting a new thermostat
- Clogged filters or drain lines, which routine maintenance can fix
- Capacitor or relay failures involve small electrical components that are not expensive to replace
- Refrigerant leaks, if small and repairable, can be solved with a simple recharge, unless your unit still uses R-22 refrigerant
One strategy to keep repair costs down is to have your AC repair done in the spring or fall, when demand for HVAC help is lower. This is one of the reasons to have your system inspected and maintained every spring (which we highly recommend at Jansen Heating & Cooling).
Climate
In Cincinnati, AC systems last longer, because we only use them in the summer.
Your Warranty
If the manufacturer or extended warranty covers the issue, repair is often the best route since you’ll pay very little.
When replacement is needed
Eventually, you will need to replace your AC. When it’s time, you might consider upgrading to a heat pump for both heating and cooling efficiency—especially if your furnace is also on its last legs.
If major repairs are needed and your air conditioning system is over 15 years old, replacement might be indicated.
When shopping AC systems, consider the following factors:
1. Sizing
An oversized unit cycles too often, reducing efficiency and comfort. Undersized units struggle to cool your home, running longer. Your Jansen technician can perform a Manual J Load Calculation to determine the right size for your home.
2. Energy efficiency
The SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) measures efficiency. The higher the SEER, the lower your energy bills. If you can afford it, choose a 17 or higher SEER.
3. System type
Central air is best for homes with ductwork. A ductless mini-split is ideal for homes without ducts or for zone cooling. Heat pumps are great for moderate climates like Cincinnati’s.
4. Installation quality
Poor HVAC system installation can cut efficiency by 30%, even if you buy a top-rated unit. Use a licensed and experienced supplier such as Jansen Heating & Cooling.
5. Cost and rebates
A new AC will cost between $3,500 and $7,500–or more, depending on the size and efficiency you choose. Look for rebates and tax credits from the government or your utility company. We can help you find appropriate rebates and credits in your area.
6. Type of refrigerant
R-22 is being phased out. Choose system that uses R-410A or a newer eco-friendly refrigerant like R-32. This can be a complex topic, so reach out to Jansen to discuss the options available to you that make the most sense for your situation.
7. Smart features
You might want to consider the following:
- Variable-speed fans and compressors for efficiency
- Smart thermostats to reduce energy use
- Dehumidification to improve indoor air quality
8. Warranty
Look for at least a 10-year warranty on the compressor and major components.
Your Jansen Heating & Cooling technician will be happy to help you select the right new air conditioning system for your budget, home’s size and cooling needs.