You might not think that an HVAC provider would consider a “repair too expensive,” but we’re going to go out on a limb and say that it absolutely happens. Sometimes your air conditioner repair in Winnetka, IL is going to be absurdly expensive, like when the compressor fails or breaks down, and you’re going to consider whether to even invest in this service at all. It happens, and especially with so many people going through economic turmoil, these decisions are becoming more frequent.
We’re not here to tell you what’s worth your money. Only you can make the best financial decision for your budget and your family. But what we will tell you is that AC repairs can sometimes be too expensive, because you’re likely looking at a replacement issue. Replacement is going to be expensive, but the long-term savings from a full system replacement can usually be much better than the results from an expensive repair.
Examples of Expensive Repairs
Here are just a few repairs that can get extremely costly, depending on your specific situation and comfort needs.
- A problem with the compressor. The compressor is the most important piece of your cooling system. It’s in charge of physically cooling the air by using pressurized refrigerant. If it runs into a problem or fails, then you’re likely looking at one of the most expensive repairs you can get.
- Air ducts in disrepair. Air ducts are extensive and sometimes in very hard-to-reach places. If you’ve got ducts in bad shape, they could require expensive repairs, which is another huge cost that can add up.
- A poorly sized air conditioner that’s short cycling. While many homeowners might want to fix their air conditioner that’s short cycling, the problem can sometimes be due to a botched installation and a system that’s too large. This, unfortunately, can only really be fixed with a replacement.
Why Consider Replacement?
Large expenses like air conditioning repairs need to be cost-effective. Your money has to be worth the service you’re purchasing, or it’s not really a good investment.
Repairs are a great investment, but in an older system, or a system that’s in bad shape, they’re not going to be worth as much. Older air conditioners usually require more repairs as they age, since components start to break down over time. Also, the money towards an expensive compressor repair in a system that’s five years old might be better spent on a more efficient, newer replacement system that will last longer.
Talk It Over With a Certified Professional
Every situation is going to be different. We can’t really tell you from where we’re sitting if the repair you’re looking at is worth the cost or not.
A good rule of thumb to use is to take the cost of your repair and see if it’s half or more of the cost of a new replacement. If so, it’s almost always more cost-effective to purchase the replacement.
Otherwise, talk to a certified professional to figure out whether your air conditioner needs to be replaced, or whether a repair is going to be worth the investment.
For AC repairs and replacements, contact Roberts Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.