Baton Rouge Residential Air Conditioner Service: Should You Repair or Replace?

Let’s face it. In South Louisiana, a summer without air conditioning is nearly unbearable. Heat and humidity blend and create indexes that soar into the triple digits.

Just like any other household appliance, central air conditioning units go through normal wear and tear. With many moving parts that run and create friction, hoses that can leak, wires that can short or surge, and several other possibilities that can cause your unit to be out of commission.

If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your unit, you have the option to either replace or repair it; but how do you know which is best?

Repairing your unit

Your A/C can malfunction almost instantly, and some issues can be simple and inexpensive to fix. An HVAC professional will run diagnostics on your unit. To determine whether or not to have it repaired should depend on what the inspection uncovers.

Some problems can also forecast that there may be more issues to come. For example, Freon leaks often signal the approaching end for A/C units. A replacement of the fluid alone can cost up to $1,000, not counting the service call and labor. The source of the leak will need to be addressed as well, and if Freon has gotten into the compressor, that too will need to be replaced over time, well exceeding the initial cost of a new unit.

Situations in which repairs are your better option usually involve wiring, fuses, and breakers. These tend to age over time and just need to be replaced.

Replacing your unit

Spending money on a new unit may not sound like an exciting expenditure, however, in many cases, it will save money in the long run. Motor and compressor problems are typically the most costly issues that occur in air conditioners. Parts and labor can easily run into the thousands, rendering are pair job useless.

One of the main benefits of a replacement is having a factory warranty. Repairs are not guaranteed to work, which means you could wind up wasting money attempting to fix a unit, only for it to fail again. Then you’ll have to either pay for further repair or buy a new unit.

Another benefit is the longevity and energy efficiency of new units. If you just purchased your home, and aren’t planning on moving, or you are renting the property, replacement is often a better option. You are going to get more life out of a new unit than you would an older one that has undergone repairs. New air conditioners and technologies are also designed to be more energy efficient which is better for not only the environment but also your utility bill.

Diagnosis is key

Figuring out exactly what is wrong with your unit is the first step to determining whether your situation calls for a repair or a replacement. The professionals at Glaze Heating and Air are experienced in identifying problems and finding the best solutions for you.