A hot summer day is a wonderful thing, especially after our long winters, but when the air conditioner in your home isn’t working the heat can become unbearable.
It is the time of year that many people will turn their cooling systems on for the first time only to discover that it is not working properly or has broken down completely. Just like with any big home repair, the question is often the same: should you repair or replace?
Repair or Replace?
Jamie Teeter, General Manager of Wardlaw Heating & Cooling, says that there are a few things that homeowners should consider before deciding whether they should repair or replace their home cooling system.
“The age of the unit and how well it has been maintained over the years is important. You should also consider how frequently it has required repairs lately, how energy efficient it is, and if it is cooling the home properly,” he explains.
According to Jamie, there are a few tell-tale signs that a new AC system may be required:
- The home has uneven temperature zones when the AC is running. Your bedroom might be freezing but the living room is sweltering or vice versa.
- Your power usage has been creeping up. This is a clue that your cooling system is working harder than necessary in order to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
- The unit is making strange noises when it is running.
- It just isn’t working anymore. No cold air is blowing out.
- The unit is leaking water or other fluids.
“If you have any issues or concerns with your air conditioner, the first step is to have it assessed by a professional HVAC technician. They can give advice based on your specific cooling system, your usage, and the size of your home,” says Jamie.
“If a repair is simple and the rest of the unit is working well, then there is no need to replace it just yet. On the other hand, sometimes it is just not worth repairing an older unit when it is near the end of its lifespan, especially when newer cooling systems are so much more efficient. A new system might end up saving you a lot in your utility bills.”
Many Cooling Options Available
If it is time to replace your air conditioner, there are new types of systems available that are much more efficient than the older models and they work great. There are four main types of home cooling systems: central AC, ductless AC, air-sourced heat pumps, and ductless heat pumps.
“The best way to choose the right type of cooling system for your home is to schedule a consultation with one of our comfort advisors. They consider the size and layout of your home, your existing HVAC system, and what comfort goals you have for your home before recommending the type of cooling system that will be best for you,” says Jamie.
To find out more about home cooling options or to schedule a service call, visit Wardlaw Heating & Cooling online or call (705) 230-3148.