Plano AC Repair Service gives advice on choosing an AC Contractor.
Plano AC Repair Service Total Air and Heat helps you know when it is better to repair versus replace that old air conditioning system.
In our prior article we set the groundwork for what SEER system you most likely have in your home and what is available to replace it. Let’s discuss the point in time when it makes sense to replace your system instead of repairing it.
Check your System Annually
Listed below are several scenarios to consider before making a decision:
- Systems under 5 years of age: In most cases fix the unit. Virtually all manufacturers provide a 5 to 10-year parts warranty on the compressor. Some manufacturers also provide a 5 or 10-year parts warranty on the condenser and evaporator coils if the system is installed at the same time.
- Systems over 5 years of age: Compressor failure-when the compressor fails and the compressor is out of warranty we suggest replacing the entire unit. The replacement compressor will typically carry a 1-year warranty. The cost of the replacement compressor is normally ½ to ¾ the cost of a new unit. If you have a high efficiency unit 12 SEER or better than replacing the compressor should be a consideration. Some better manufacturers offer a 10-year parts warranty on the compressor, be sure to have your contractor check and see if your compressor is in warranty. If your condenser coil fails follow the same guidelines as compressor replacement. Any other part that fails normally is low enough in cost to warrant a repair instead of replacing the unit if the system is under 5 years old.
- Systems over 8 years of age: Unless the part is below $250.00 we suggest considering replacing the unit. If the condenser fan motor fails, it is possible that hidden damage is present. Your compressor depends on the condenser fan motor to remove heat from the unit. When the fan motor fails it puts a tremendous amount of stress on the compressor and condenser coil. The compressor is similar to your car engine; overheating can damage both. If your unit runs for an extended period of time with the condenser fan motor out the compressor can suffer bearing damage and motor winding damage. The compressor is a sealed unit and many times the damage does not show up right away. Bottom line, you need to be sure all aspects have been considered before making a decision.
Choosing a Contractor
This can be a difficult process and many consumers make a fatal mistake in choosing a contractor based on price. There are exceptions to every rule, but in most cases you get what you pay for and rarely will you regret paying a little more to get the job done right. One thing I always like to make my customers aware of is what I call the “Cardboard Box Rule”. That being a new air conditioning and heating systems comes in a cardboard box and works as good as the company who installed it. Unlike a car, refrigerator, television, or a computer which are all completed products and can be shopped from one retailer to another and still get a product that product is 100% ready to turn on or drive away. A new air conditioner can be the best unit available; but give you problems if not installed properly.
- Many contractors have given in to price pressures and use Sub-Contractors to install their equipment. Sub-Contractors get a flat fee to install the job, the faster they do it, the sooner they can start another job. Many of the best contractors still use hourly employees to install their equipment; this is because quality and service are still their main focus.
- Be sure to get in writing exactly what you are paying for. Ask for model numbers, brand name, warranty, and hours of service in writing. Ask about satisfaction guarantees in writing. Never pay 100% of the cost for the work in advance, always hold at least ½ back until the job is finished.
- Make sure your contractor pulls a City Permit when you replace equipment. Pulling a permit is required in virtually every city. If a permit is not pulled and your property suffers a loss related to the new equipment, and your insurance company determines the installation did not meet city code, your claim can be denied!
- I also suggest seeing if your contractor is a member of ACCA-Air Conditioning Contractors of America. Ask if your contractors technicians have been certified by accredited testing organizations such as N.A.T.E. who insure technicians have the necessary knowledge to work on modern a/c and heat systems and stay current in their certifications.
- Last but certainly not least make sure your contractor is licensed and insured. The State of Texas requires all contractors performing service, repairs, or replacements be licensed through the Department of Licensing and Regulation in Austin, Texas. This department ensures that all contractors are insured and follow guidelines.
In summary air conditioning systems are the heart of your home. When operating properly they can work behind the scene to ensure comfort within your home. Take the time to properly maintain your system. When it breaks do your homework before calling a contractor. Understand what their fees are, and check references. If you have any questions about this article please call me at 972-881-0020.
Plano AC Repair Service owner Steve Lauten is President of Total Air & Heat Co. located in Plano, TX. Steve can be reached at 972-535-8066 or by email at sales@totalair.com. Total Air & Heat Co. has been serving the North Dallas/Collin County area since 1957 and has been voted the “Best Heat and Air Contractor in Collin County” 14 times by the readers of Star Community Newspapers.