Should you replace your AC unit?

Not Always. We’ve been asked to provide a second (and even third) opinion when someone has been told they need to replace their AC condenser. There is a component in every standard AC unit called a capacitor. Its function is to give the outdoor compressor and fan the boost of power they need to start. An electric motor requires more power to start it than to keep it running. More often than not, it’s the capacitor that doesn’t work — it fails to to make the the compressor and/or fan to run.

Before you get an entirely new AC unit, allow us to properly diagnose what’s the real problem. The replacement parts (such as the capacitor) is likely to cost less than $100, but unless you know what the problem is, you won’t know which part needs to be replaced. The bottom line: proper diagnosis can mean the difference between a $250 service call and a $2500 AC condenser replacement.

Sometimes, A Different Problem Exists. It’s not about replacing a specific part, but about making a necessary change that is more cost-efficient in the long run and also healthier for all concerned. For example, we often get asked why an entire AC system needs to be changed when it’s only the outdoor unit that isn’t working. The answer is this: if you have an old unit, it’s likely using the R-22 refrigerant - which is an HCFC (hydrochlorofluorcarbon) containing chlorine gas (scientifically known as Chlorodifluoromethane  or difluoromonochloromethane). Chlorine gas has been largely discontinued due to its harsh environmental impact. R-410A - by comparison - is an HFC (i.e. there is no chlorine). In addition, the refrigerants also contain different oils to lubricate the compressor. These cannot be mixed. If they are mixed, the oil will separate from the refrigerant, causing compressor blow out. Typically, when an old R-22 system finally breaks down, both the indoor and outdoor units are replaced because they are designed to work with the new refrigerant. The refrigerant pipes should also be replaced or flushed out with the proper chemicals.