We meet a few homeowners who run into compressor problems. They’re not very common issues to have with your air conditioner, but they do happen, and they can lead to a complicated conversation. The big problem with a compressor issue is that replacing a broken compressor can be one of the most expensive fixes that you can sign up for. Compressors are the most important component of the cooling process, and without a functioning one, your AC is just an oversized fan.
Today, we’d like to talk about air conditioning repair in Simi Valley, CA, and in specific, we’d like to focus on compressors. When should you have your compressor fixed, replaced, or when should you decide to have your whole system replaced altogether?
We aim to answer that question and more down below. Just make sure you call us for a comfort consultation if you need help.
How Expensive Should Repairs Be?
This is an interesting question, but one that can be answered by a simple rule.
If the cost of your repair exceeds 50% of the cost of a new AC installation, then you should almost always go with the replacement.
This rule gets at a cost-savings analysis that’s really important to consider. Repairs are designed to keep your air conditioner running after they’re done. Comprehensive repairs mean that your AC should, potentially, keep running smoothly for years to come.
But if your AC is reaching its retirement age, or it’s dealt with such a huge problem that it needs an extremely expensive repair (like the replacement of a compressor), then you might get more savings from replacing the system entirely, along with the other older components as well.
Why Are Compressor Repairs More Expensive?
Well, when should you replace or repair your AC’s compressor? To answer that question, we need to talk about why the compressor is the most expensive component to fix or replace.
The compressor is arguably the heart of your air conditioner. It’s responsible for pressurizing the refrigerant in the refrigerant lines, which then draws in or deposits the heat in specific areas. The whole cooling process depends on the power that the compressor draws and the work that this component completes. Without it, your air conditioner will just continue to blow untreated air through your air vents.
The sheer fact that the compressor is the most important component of the cooling process means that it’s going to be the most expensive component to repair or replace. It’s also the largest and most complex component in your system. This leads to it being a huge investment for homeowners.
Other Factors to Consider
Look, if your air conditioner isn’t that old, or if the compressor just needs to be quickly fixed at a more affordable cost, then we’d recommend you have this done. As long as you’re looking towards the future of your comfort and budget, then repairing your compressor isn’t bad.
However, if your air conditioner is older, suffering from inefficiencies, or is frequently in disrepair, then the compressor repair you’re thinking about might be overkill. Instead, look at the cost of a new AC system replacement. This could last you longer and provide you with better results down the line.
JMS Air Conditioning and Heating has your back. Call us for any AC repairs you might need.
