Every homeowner needs to ask this question: Do I need to replace my HVAC equipment or have someone repair it?
Many homeowners who buy any property often check the utilities in the house. Often, they find themselves asking that question, because either the unit is relatively old, or it might be faulty. A faulty unit is not a good thing to have at any time of the year. In the summer, having one can make life very uncomfortable. For an HVAC contractor, a replacement might appear to be the correct decision, but that may not be the case for the client. Sometimes it makes more sense to repair the heating and cooling equipment. In Ontario, Canada, there are two ways you could resolve your home’s heating and cooling problems.
Repair: The More Popular Option
Many expert contractors will tell you that repairing is often the best option. This is understandable, as most cooling system problems start as electrical issues and could be easily repaired. if your HVAC has worn out contactors or failed motor-run capacitors, you could have them repaired instead of getting a replacement. Your HVAC expert should recommend what is best for you, especially when it comes to your system’s capacity and your budget. A reliable contractor will place the replacement costs alongside repair costs and give the customer the opportunity to make an informed decision.
The Cost of replacing R-22
R-22 is a refrigerant used in many cooling and heating systems. It has been popularly called Freon, and if your air conditioning unit was purchased before 2010, your system might still use R-22.
The refrigerant is slowly being phased out as it contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer, but there are still cooling systems that use it. The environmental concerns surrounding the refrigerant have led to reduced availability, which has led to higher prices for it. If your heat pump or unit needs R-22, it might be a better investment to purchase a new unit instead of replacing your cooling system’s R-22 supply.
Cost of Maintenance
You should make sure that your system has regular maintenance. Doing so would prevent serious damages and expensive repairs. Make sure you follow the recommended scheduled maintenance for your unit. You should also be aware of any signs of damage in your unit.
Service Life of the HVAC
If your air conditioner was made before 1990, you might want to replace it even if it does not need repair. But you should know that most air conditioners built before 1990 is only 65% efficient. The overall utility cost can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Choosing between repair and replacement for your heating or cooling unit is not difficult, but you need to recognize when to have either one. Ask the opinion of an HVAC expert for your home in Ontario, and they will tell you whether it’s time to get a new unit or keep the old one. Schedule for the appropriate maintenance and repairs so you won’t have to worry about your home’s heating and cooling system for a long time.
