Repair or Replace your AC in Phoenix AZ
Should I Repair or Replace my AC System? When your particular air conditioning unit needs more than just a quick fix, you must make an important decision: should you get your AC repaired or get it replaced?
Alaskan Air is here to help guide you through that process by outlining the factors and costs associated with each option of an AC repair or an AC installation and replacement. With comprehensive knowledge of both options, you’ll gain confidence when settling on what’s best for yourself and your home.
How long do Air Conditioner units usually last?
Knowing your air conditioner’s age and average lifespan can be critical – whether it’s been installed for a few short years or has endured decades of wear.
Take care of your air conditioning system; it can last you an extra five years or more. Make sure to regularly service the unit for its longevity, as a well-maintained machine should easily exceed 15 years. The individual parts may outlast this timeframe; invest in AC maintenance today and reap long-term rewards and keep your AC running smoothly.
The Components of an Air Conditioner
As AC units age, specific components will become weaker and ultimately fail. These parts tend to be the more labor-intensive elements of an HVAC system, so a qualified AC technician must regularly assess their condition. With proactive air conditioner maintenance, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements in the future with your cooling system.
Are you chilling out? You need more than a glass of lemonade to survive the summer heat– an air-conditioning system is essential.
It comprises four major parts – compressor, evaporator/indoor coil, condenser/outdoor coil, and electrical components like the capacitor, AC contactor, and fan motors.
This machinery works seamlessly together to bring relief from soaring temperatures. So go ahead: get your cool on with quality A/C units that meet all your child’s needs.
The AC Compressor
The compressor is the engine of an air conditioner, constantly transferring refrigerant between two coils to provide lasting cooling comfort. Its dependability varies depending on a combination of electrical and mechanical components that could keep it running for more than 20 years.
Technicians were astonished to find compressors still running after 40 years of use – a testament to the quality and durability. However, most air conditioning compressor units last only 10-20 years before experiencing electrical shorts or internal locking up. Unfortunately, these issues usually can’t be fixed with AC repairs.
The Evaporator/Indoor Coil
The evaporator/indoor coil is critical in removing the heat from your home and transferring it to the compressor. Most Evaporator Coils are built with copper, aluminum, and steel. These coils are durable, lasting until around 12 years when refrigerant starts leaking out – usually occurring between 15-20 years of use.
The Condenser/Outdoor Coil
The condenser in an air conditioner dissipates the heat collected by the evaporator, making it a key component for cooling efficiency. Luckily, outdoor coils have a low failure rate and long lifespan – plus, replacing one is relatively inexpensive.
Though small, an air conditioner’s components significantly influence system operations; an AC contractor is responsible for turning it off and on – with residential versions using 240 volts. Over time, this process can burn its metal surfaces, forming pits that impede electrical flow.
The capacitor is a lifesaver, helping to regulate erratic electrical flow. It’s like having a running mate who paces the current – creating uniformity in output. Often, however, it’s not just air conditioner issues causing problems; many exist, such as extreme heat buildup and low refrigerant levels or dirty coils that lead to extended use cycles.
The fan motor relies on the condenser coil to properly ventilate airflow. Unfortunately, if that coil gets dirty or locks up–or even worse, something damages the blade itself–it can cause significant issues for your device’s longevity. You can expect over 10-12 years of use from these components with proper maintenance, but they could last much longer.
If you have an air conditioner older than ten years, it may contain the now-illegal refrigerant R22. Unfortunately, this means future repairs for your unit may be impossible as resources of this chemically-harmful gas shrink and prices skyrocket. Replacing your AC will save time in the long run.
What’s next in the process? Should you get an AC repair or replace it?
Air Conditioners are generally reliable but many components require special attention when they reach 10 years or older. A quality HVAC company like Alaskan Air can guide you through the parts availability process for your aging system – no matter its age.
The vast majority of air conditioners have a life expectancy of 15-20 years.
Are you Ready to repair your HVAC system for the cooling season? Contact Alaskan Air and make it happen. If you’re contemplating an AC replacement because your AC is not cooling like when it was new, schedule an estimate with an Alaskan Comfort Advisor to learn more about the best options available in efficient HVAC systems.
