IT IS TIME TO REPAIR OR REPLACE?
With the seasons changing, now is the time to think about your Heating and air conditioning system. is it in good shape? Does it need a mayor work?
DID YOU KNOW?
Freon (R22) has been discontinue – Air Conditioner and Heat Pumps that use Freon could end up costing consumer money, as remaining supplies of R22 start to run out, prices continue to rise drastically. Right now, R22 is around 800% more expensive than it ever was before.
WHY IS THE R22 FREON PHASE OUT HAPPENING?
In the 1970s it was discovered at certain types of refrigerants (including the industry standard air conditioner coolant R22 or Freon), were depleting the Earth’s ozone layer. An international treaty called the Montreal Protocol called for a worldwide phase-out of these types of refrigerants.
Since then, the EPA has been gradually increasing the restrictions on the use of R22, and in December of 2019 the R22 phase out will be complete and it will be illegal to manufacture or import into the United States.
We get asked this question all the time – should I repair my unit or replace it? Well, like so many things in life, it depends. As an HVAC contractor, you might think our answer is always going to be “replace” so you can buy new equipment, but that’s not the case. Sometimes it does make sense to repair a piece of equipment, even if it’s older or if the repair is costly. First, let’s talk about when you probably should consider replacement:
If you have a standing pilot furnace or an air conditioner that is built before 1992, it’s time to consider replacement, even if you’re not facing a repair. The reality is that your furnace is around 65% efficient and your air conditioner is 8 SEER or less.
The amount you can save in utility costs will help pay for the cost of a new unit and it’s not a matter of if, but when you will find yourself facing a costly repair. Take the time now to research and plan for replacing your unit so you have the time to make an educated decision instead of being rushed because you don’t have heating or cooling.
Homeowners that have older equipment and decide to replace their old system should strongly consider purchasing high-energy efficient systems. Energy-efficient systems will result in costs savings. Today’s energy efficient air conditioners use much less energy to produce that same amount of cooling. According to the EPA, Energy Star ® labeled products can save homeowners 10 – 40% on their heating and cooling bills every year.
Take this opportunity to get new equipment that will save you money in both utility costs and repairs – after all, new equipment comes with new warranties and higher efficiency. Air conditioners also come with environmentally friendlier refrigerant which has begun to cost much less than the R22 that exists in most air conditioners today.
Use the guide (Infographics) below to decide if it’s time for a new, more efficient model.
