When to Repair or Replace an HVAC Unit: Info from a Company Providing Commercial HVAC Repair in Florida

When to Repair or Replace an HVAC Unit: Info from a Company Providing Commercial HVAC Repair in Florida

When to Repair or Replace an HVAC Unit: Info from a Company Providing Commercial HVAC Repair in Florida

Air conditioning and other HVAC units need regular maintenance to ensure they continue to run at peak efficiency for years into the future. Occasionally, some extra repairs beyond standard maintenance tasks are needed to keep it operating smoothly. But how do you know if it is time to repair or replace your HVAC unit?

Here are a few considerations to keep in mind as you decide your best path forward:

  • The age of the unit: Age is one of the biggest factors you will need to consider when it comes time to either repair or replace an air conditioning unit. One good rule of thumb often used in the industry is the rule of 5,000. Take the age of the equipment and multiply it by the repair cost. If the number is more than $5,000, replacement might be a more financially intelligent option. A 10-year-old unit with a $300 repair cost is fine to repair, but a $650 repair cost might make it a better idea to replace it entirely.
  • Energy efficiency: These days, HVAC units are more energy efficient than ever before. Energy Star recommends upgrading to a more efficient unit if your current air conditioner is at least 10 years old. Most providers of commercial HVAC repair in Florida would recommend you replace a unit of at least 15 years of age.
  • R-22 refrigerant: If your air conditioner unit requires additional refrigerant, there may be a coolant leak somewhere inside the appliance. Adding additional refrigerant (Freon) could cost anywhere from $40 to $175 per pound, with an additional service call. Fixing the leak could cost significantly more. If you find out you have a leak, the cost to fix it would probably not be worth the expense, unless it’s a very new appliance. It will likely make more sense to replace it entirely. You could potentially get a low-end new unit for the same price of repairing the old equipment.
  • Frequency of maintenance: How frequently do you engage in routine maintenance of your air conditioner? This could make a big difference in your decision to replace or repair. A unit that has seen regular maintenance is less likely to need to be replaced any time soon, meaning you can likely get away with a quick repair.
  • Energy bills: Have you been seeing your energy bills rising? This could indicate your unit is no longer running as efficiently as it once did. A lot of times this happens simply due to age, but there could be an easily fixable problem causing the lack of efficiency.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to repair or replace HVAC units in your business depends on how well the unit is operating. If it is keeping your business comfortable and is not having a significant effect on your energy bills, then you are probably fine to continue using it.

For more information, contact a company providing trusted commercial HVAC repair in Florida. The team at 5 Star Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Inc. would be happy to work with you.

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