replacing ac systems in gresham for 30 years
Air conditioners are designed to last for many years, but even the sturdiest appliances eventually wear down. After about 10 years of use, most AC units will begin to show signs of functional wear and tear and need replacing. Oxbow Heating & Cooling is a leading provider of AC replacement services in Gresham and we’re here to make your AC replacement affordable and seamless.
When is it time to replace your AC system?
If your air conditioner is more than 10 years old, not cooling your home effectively, or costing you a lot of money to operate, it may be time for a new system.
Newer air conditioners are more efficient than older models, so they can save you money on your energy bills over time. They also use newer technologies that can provide better cooling performance and air quality.
If you’re not sure whether or not you need a new air conditioner system, it’s a good idea to have an Oxbow qualified HVAC technician inspect your current unit. They can assess its condition and efficiency, and make recommendations for repairs or replacement. You can learn about our AC installation process here.
Frequent Questions About AC Replacement
You might want to consider replacing your unit if it is ten years old. It is because heating and cooling comprise around 50% of your utility costs. However, if your energy bills have been increasing or your AC breaks down frequently, there are cooling issues now, and then, so you may consider replacing it.
The lifespan of an AC unit depends on various factors, including the manufacturer's recommendations, maintenance, and usage. Generally, an AC unit can last for 10-15 years. However, if your AC unit is over ten years old and requires frequent and costly repairs, it may be time to replace it.
On average, an AC is supposed to work for 15-20 years. You can expect your AC to work longer with an excellent preventive maintenance routine.
No, it is not advisable to only replace outdoor units because connecting indoor and outdoor units of different capacities will result in clogged tubes and buying a new AC. Also, other systems use different refrigerants, and old coils must be compatible with new Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio standards.
On average, replacing an AC takes 4-8 hours. Also, replacing an AC unit depends on various factors, such as the shape & size of your AC. For example, a smaller team can be installed faster than a bulkier one. Also, the type of AC and the location where it is to be installed will determine its installation period.
Replacing the AC compressor is only sometimes the best option and should only be considered if your compressor is under warranty. Replacing it will cost you a lot of money if it is not under contract. However, replacing the AC compressor will be a good option if you have had multiple repairs.
Here is the Problem With AC Unit
People most frequently experience one of the following AC problems: insufficient cooling, aircon not operating, leaky unit, uneven temperature distribution, or loud noises from the AC. There could be various reasons your air conditioner isn't efficiently cooling your house.
You should check your thermostat to see if your AC is running while not cooling the room or lowering the temperature. The next problem could be dirty air filters or clogged or blocked coils in the condenser, blowing warm air instead of cold air. Finally, contact a technician if your AC is switched on but needs to be cooling efficiently.
You will need a multimeter or device to measure volts, amps, and ohms to check your AC compressor. Next, turn off your AC, unscrew or remove the faceplates from your unit, then remove the electric access panel. Now you will see a cylindrical metal tank which is your compressor. Examine the wires to see if they are damaged or frayed. Call for any professional help for further assistance if they are damaged.
Overheating is the most frequent reason for compressor failure. For example, if there is a lack of ventilation in case of direct sunlight falls on your outdoor unit, it will result in an overheated compressor. Moreover, low refrigerant levels, dirty coils, and lack of insulation are also responsible for compressor overheating resulting in its untimely failure.
Your air conditioner can't keep the house cool without refrigerant. So you can use the test soap technique to check for any system leaks. Using an electric leak detector will also help you check in for leaks. Check for coolant levels. If you see the temperatures are within the 5k-10k range, your system is exemplary. If you need help, call us at 503-867-0026 for technicians' help.
It is advisable to repair your AC unit if it is less than ten years old and the repair costs are less than 50% of the cost of a new unit. However, if your AC unit is more than ten years old and requires frequent repairs, replacing it may be more cost-effective.
AC replacement can be beneficial in several ways, including increased energy efficiency, improved indoor air quality, and reduced repair costs. Newer AC units are more energy-efficient and can save money on energy bills. Additionally, newer units come with advanced air filtration systems that improve indoor air quality.
You should replace your AC filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and the manufacturer's recommendations. If you have respiratory problems or keep pets indoors, you may have to change them more often.
Before an AC replacement, it is essential to ensure that the area around your AC unit is clean and free of any obstacles. Additionally, you should inform our technicians of any specific requirements or preferences you may have. Finally, it is advisable to make arrangements for someone to be present during the installation process.
If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to reach out to the Oxbow Heating & Cooling technicians, who are always available to assist you.
