Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

As a homeowner, you often face tough questions when it comes to maintaining your home. But none might be tougher than when you’re faced with an aging appliance or HVAC unit, and you have to make a split-second decision – should I repair it or replace it?

Fortunately, the NATE-certified technicians at Grove Heating & Cooling can help you with that answer. When it’s time to repair or replace your air conditioning unit, you can trust the HVAC experts at Grove to put your mind at ease. For more than 15 years, we’ve been the number-one trusted and family-owned HVAC business in Maryland, serving customers in the suburbs of Annapolis.

When is it Time to Replace an Air Conditioning Unit?

We’re happy to assist you in making a repair or replacement decision regarding your AC unit. But answering these three questions first might shed some light on what your best option is.

How Old Is Your AC Unit?

Age is one of the most important factors in whether to repair or replace an air conditioner. If your unit is more than 10 to 15 years old, then it’s probably time to at least consider replacing it, especially if it’s been repaired frequently in the past.

Newer air conditioning units are more energy efficient than systems that were manufactured just 10 to 15 years ago. Newer systems have a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER rating) than do older units. The minimum standard SEER rating for ACs is 13. SEER goes up to 21, which is the highest maximum efficiency. Units that are more than 10 years old may have a SEER rating as low as 7 to 10.

At Grove, we recommend 14 or 16 SEER units, as we have found them to be more reliable.  

How Efficient Is the AC Unit?

Are your energy bills sky high? If they are, your air conditioner unit could be to blame. Some older, less-efficient units have difficulty keeping your home cool in the summer and may put itself under stress in order to do so. Older units with lower SEERs rating could lead to an inefficient system.

Although costs may be more expensive upfront, switching to a more energy-efficient system can save you hundreds of dollars per year on your energy bill. New air conditioner units also have special add ons, including smart thermostats, dehumidifiers and zoning systems.

Does Your AC Breakdown Frequently?

Do you have your HVAC company on speed dial to handle all of the expensive repairs your air conditioning unit has dished out? If that’s the case, then it’s definitely worth considering replacing your older unit. Repairs can add up quickly, so put your hard-earned money into buying a new system.

Common Air Conditioning Repairs

We discussed common signs to replace your AC unit, but there are times when a simple repair may be warranted. Here are a few examples that the unit might just need repaired. Remember, though, if any of these issues are coupled with some of the replacement signs, then you should go back to considering a full replacement instead.

Here are some common AC repairs we perform for homes in the suburbs of Annapolis, Maryland:

  • Compressor replacement
  • Refrigerant leak and recharge
  • Fan belt replacement
  • Fan blade replacement
  • Blower motor replacement
  • Electrical components repairs
  • And much more!

You may not know immediately whether your air conditioning unit needs repaired or replaced, so it’s best to give a technician a call so they can come out and diagnose the system. Give Grove Heating and Cooling a call if you notice any of the following issues.

  • The unit is leaking refrigerant or water: Moisture could be an indication your unit is stressed and overworked.
  • The thermostat isn’t working properly.
  • The air conditioner runs continuously.
  • The air conditioner is making noises: Your system should be relatively quiet, so a squealing, grating, grinding or other loud noises should be cause for concern.
  • The system doesn’t turn on at all.
  • Uneven cooling through your home.
  • Blowing hot air: This could be a sign of a refrigerant leak of a broken compressor and needs to be checked on immediately.
  • Bad smells: A burnt smell could be a sign the wiring insulation is fried. A musty odor could indicate mold.

Grove Heating and Cooling is Your Trusted AC Installation Company

The technicians at Grove Heating and Cooling handle all makes and models of air conditioners across Maryland. Whether you’re looking for air conditioning repair, replacement or you’re unsure – give Grove a call today!

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