Should I Repair or Replace My AC?

Every Michigander with a central air conditioner eventually must decide whether to repair or replace their cooling system.  

Maybe your AC has worked for years without problems, but this summer sounds odd. Its output feels weaker and warmer, and the cooling cycle is off-kilter.

You might have changed its air filter and hosed the outdoor fins, hoping a little TLC would bolster its performance. Instead, it stopped working altogether, and now you are wrestling with repair versus replacement. 

Professional HVAC Advice in Macomb Township

Transform your stress into relief with a thorough AC inspection and diagnosis by our experts at Great Dane Heating, Cooling, Electrical, & Plumbing. One of our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technicians will examine your equipment and determine if repair is possible, what it would entail, and how much it will cost.

The information will help you make an informed decision as you consider the pros and cons of repair and replacement. 

At Great Dane Heating, Cooling, Electrical, & Plumbing, we will never talk you into buying something you do not need, but we will let you know if replacement makes better financial sense than repair. 

Our experts stay abreast of changes in HVAC technology and continually train on the top heating and cooling units. We proudly offer Carrier products, which are known for reliability and durability. We can help match a new system to your comfort and budget needs. 

There is no substitute for a professional service call when considering repair or replacement solutions. You want experienced eyes, ears, and hands-on malfunctioning equipment in Macomb Township before you decide. 

In the meantime, we have compiled a few general guidelines to help you understand your options.

Repairing your AC

You may save money in the short run by repairing your malfunctioning air conditioner, especially if issues are minor and your unit is on the newer side. If the problem is easily fixable, such as a malfunctioning thermostat, consider repairs.

Other typical and repairable issues include:

• Low Refrigerant Level: We can fix refrigerant leaks and recharge your system. However, if your unit uses an outdated and expensive refrigerant, such as the banned R-22, it is time for replacement. 
• Clogged Filter: Dirty or clogged air filters reduce system efficiency and restrict airflow. The fix is easy: simply replace your air filter. 
  
• Bad Capacitor:  Your AC capacitors send electricity to the motor to start it and keep it running.  Replacing a capacitor is much less expensive than replacing an entire AC system. 
  
• Clogged Condensate Drain:  Dust, dirt, mold, and mildew can build up in your condensate drain, causing water damage around and in the indoor unit and leading to cooling problems. A professional can clear the drain. An annual AC tune-up typically includes drain maintenance.  

Replacing Your AC

Here are some reasons why you might want to replace your AC:

• Age and Condition: Consider replacement if your air conditioner needs frequent repair or is nearing the end of its useful lifespan. AC systems typically last 10 to 15 years. Suppose you own a 20-year-old unit that has never needed repair until now. You may gain one or two more years by repairing it. You will not fix inefficiency or age. Consider replacement instead.
  
• High Energy Bills: An older, outdated system signals its inefficiency through high electricity bills. You may save a few bucks by repairing it, but it will never operate as efficiently as a new unit and will not lower your bills. With a new, more efficient unit, you begin saving money immediately.
• Outdated Features: Modern AC systems offer variable-speed compressors, multi-speed blowers, superior humidity control, quiet operation, new refrigerants, and other features. These benefits make replacement an easy choice when comparing a new unit to an outdated single-speed system. 
  
• Peace of Mind: A new unit will be more reliable and perform more efficiently than your aging system. If you are tired of worrying about equipment breakdowns every summer, invest in a new unit rather than repairs and gain peace of mind. 

Get Professional Advice Today!

Our experienced Great Dane Heating, Cooling, Electrical, & Plumbing  technicians can maintain, repair, or replace your air conditioning system and help you stay comfortable in your Macomb Township, MI, home. Call us at 586.265.2505 or request service online.