After a few false starts, summer is finally on its way, bringing warmer weather and longer days. While this is always a welcome reprieve after a frosty winter, Melbourne residents know all too well that it’s only a matter of time before things get too hot.
The escalating temperatures of the scorching Melbourne summers over the years have made air con in Melbourne homes less of a luxury and more of a necessity; so it might be the time to ensure that your heating and cooling solutions are in optimal condition. If your air conditioner has been around for a while and it’s no longer performing at its best, it’s helpful to run a diagnostics check with the Total Electric & AC heating and cooling specialists. With over a decade’s experience in commercial air conditioning — offering both air conditioner installation as well as the best air conditioning repair in Melbourne — our friendly team can run an analysis on your current air con unit, so that you can determine whether or not you need to replace the unit or if a repair and service will suffice.
With climate experts advising that Australians should “prepare for anything”, you may also wish to look into a split system installation. You can scroll down to learn more, or browse our heating and cooling services here.
Understanding Your Air Conditioner’s Lifespan
Like anything else in this world, air conditioners have an average lifespan, with most sturdy units typically lasting anywhere between 10 and 15 years. After this time, you may notice a decline in efficiency and an increase in repair expenses. Recognizing this lifespan is essential for determining whether to repair or replace your unit.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Is Aging
Worried that your air conditioner unit is on its final legs? Here are some telltale signs that might indicate that it’s time to repair or replace your air con unit…
- Unusual Emissions: If your air conditioner emits strange smells, moisture, or sounds when it starts up, it could be a sign that it needs repairs or replacement.
- Rising Energy Costs: Are your energy bills increasing? While that’s unfortunately a common consequence of the cost of living crisis, your old air conditioner unit might be making things worse for you. Older units tend to use more energy, which can lead to higher utility expenses.
- Inconsistent Cooling: If you notice hot spots in your home, it may indicate inefficiencies in your air conditioning unit. While performance varies based on the unit, local climate, and usage frequency, a well-maintained air conditioner can last over 10 years.
- Frequent Repairs: If your air conditioner has already been repaired several times and still needs ongoing maintenance, it may be time to consider replacing it.
Repairing Your Air Conditioner
Advantages of Repairing
- Cost-Efficiency: Repairing your air conditioning unit can often be less expensive than replacing the unit entirely.
- A Quicker Job With Less Disruptions: Repairs can often be completed more quickly, minimising interruptions to your home life.
- Familiarity: If you are already cheerily accustomed to the controls and idiosyncrasies of your current unit, hanging onto it may be far preferable to replacing it with a new unit.
When Should I Consider Repairing?
- Minor Issues: Simple problems, such as a blocked filter or a refrigerant recharge, are often cheap and easy fixes, and can typically be repaired at a minimum cost.
- It’s A New Purchase: If your unit is under 10 years old, then you should definitely look into repairs before you start shopping around for a new unit; especially if your current unit is still within warranty.
- High Replacement Costs: If the cost of a new unit is significantly higher than that of repairing your existing one, then repairing the current unit (if possible) is your cheapest solution.
Common Repairs
- Thermostat Issues: A quick recalibration, or the replacement of a faulty part, is sometimes all that is needed to resolve temperature control problems in a faulty unity.
- Refrigerant Leaks: Professional air conditioner technicians are trained to fix leaks and replenish refrigerants as needed.
- Electrical Problems: Faulty wiring and clunky motors are all-too-common hindrances, and can be quickly and easily fixed if services by a trained air conditioner technician.
Replacing Your Air Conditioner
Advantages of Replacement
- Energy Efficiency: Newer systems are typically designed to be much more energy efficient, resulting in savings on your energy bills over time.
- Enhanced Comfort: New air con models often include advanced technology for improved temperature regulation.
- Long-Term Investment: A new quality air conditioner unit can offer reliability and peace of mind for years to come.
Signs That It’s Time to Replace
- Age: If your air conditioning unit is acting up, and it’s 15 years or older, then replacing it is often the smart (and more economical) choice.
- Serious Damage: If your air con unit is displaying significant issues, such as a failing compressor, then you may require a replacement.
- Frequent Repairs: If your air conditioner has already required multiple repairs and is still not performing optimally, it’s probably time to invest in a new unit. .
Considerations for Replacement
- Cost: When shopping around for a new air conditioner, always factor in the price of the unit as well as the installation fees. To get a free quote, you can use our free online installation form here.
- Efficiency Ratings: Consider units that boast a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating for better energy performance.
- Size & Capacity: Make sure the new unit is adequately sized for your space to maximise efficiency.
Making the Decision: Repair or Replace?
Determining whether to repair or replace your air conditioner in Australia requires careful evaluation of factors such as the unit’s age, the severity of the issues, and of course, how much you’re willing to spend. Whether you decide to repair your existing unit or invest in a new one, regular maintenance will ensure your home stays comfortable for years to come. You can consult an air conditioner specialist to help you make an informed decision that meets your specific needs, and/or consider the following key factors:
- Cost Analysis: The first step is to estimate the costs associated with potential repairs over the next few years. This involves gathering quotes for necessary repairs and calculating their total. Next, compare this amount to the costs of replacing the unit, which should include the price of a new air conditioner, installation fees, and potential savings on energy bills that a more efficient model might provide.
- Assess Your Home’s Requirements: Consider the size of your home; larger homes may experience greater benefits from an efficient new unit that can better manage temperature control. If you intend to live in your current residence for an extended period, investing in a new system could be more advantageous in the long run, as it may offer improved reliability and energy savings.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consulting a certified HVAC technician can provide you with valuable insights into the condition of your air conditioning unit and whether a repair or replacement is the best course of action. Total Electrics and AC boasts a staff of friendly and qualified technicians that specialise in installation and repair services for both commercial and residential air conditioning systems, ensuring that your unit operates at maximum efficiency. We also offer a vast range of quality air conditioners, including reverse cycle air conditioning, split systems, multi head split systems, ducted air conditioning, bulkhead ducted air conditioning.
Whether you are looking for an AC installation you can trust, or general electrical services in Melbourne, Total Electrics & Air Conditioning has got you sorted. With over a decade in the residential air conditioning game, we stock the top brands — such as Daikin air conditioning — and our trained specialists are the best in the business. You can contact us directly here, or head over to our website to get a fast and free quote.