Should You Repair or Replace Your AC System?

Should You Repair or Replace Your AC System?

The EPA has mandated that all air conditioning equipment manufactured after January 1, 2025, use R-454B refrigerant.

R-454B has a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R-410A. There are no ozone-depleting compounds, it has low toxicity compared to past refrigerants, and it has proven to be more energy efficient in the US Department of Energy testing. Learn more here!

A new system will ultimately be in everyone’s future, but as with previous refrigerant phase-outs, there is a runway of time before 410A refrigerant and replacement parts are depleted. For now, homeowners will need to consider whether their system is worth repairing or whether it is time to replace it.

While reading the Repair List and Replace List, make a note of which statements apply to your AC system or unit(s).

Repair:

• Active warranty; some repairs may be covered.

• The system’s age is less than its life expectancy.

• Your unit had 0-2 repairs in the last 3 years.

• The unit’s performance generally functions well.

• You plan to live in your home for less than 7 years.

• Newer models, less than 10 years old, run more efficiently and keep monthly costs down.

• If you meet the $5,000 Rule: Age Of Your Unit x Repair Cost < $5,000

• The SEER is over 13.

Replace:

• Expired warranty; you are responsible for all repair costs.

• The system is at or has surpassed its life expectancy.

• Your unit has had 3+ repairs in the last 3 years.

• Your unit’s performance has gone down. Look for: Lessened airflow strength, difficulty with full room or house coverage, more time to change the temperature, and its ability to reach the desired temperature.

• You plan to live in your home for 7 years or more.

• The system is 10+ years old, or you want to optimize energy efficiency.

• You exceed the $5,000 Rule: Age Of Your Unit x Repair Cost > $5,000.

• Your equipment uses R-22 refrigerant.

If more statements in the Repair column apply to you, calling our experts for a repair makes sense. If more statements in the Replace column apply, then you are in luck…

BIG SUMMER SAVINGS ARE HERE

BIG SUMMER SAVINGS ARE HERE

Call us today at 203.227.5181 or visit gaultenergy.com/ac-savings to schedule an in-home consultation with one of our Comfort Specialists.

If you haven’t read our last blog, here is a recap….

Another Refrigerant Change Is Here.

Over 15 years ago, the EPA began phasing out R-22 refrigerant, which is commonly used in air conditioning systems. This year, the EPA has added to that banned refrigerant list - R-410A, which was the EPA’s recommended refrigerant to replace R-22.

Now, the industry is being directed to manufacture systems that only use R-454B, a refrigerant with a significantly smaller impact on global warming than the previous two, and has increased energy efficiency.

Should I repair or replace?

A new system will ultimately be in everyone’s future, but as with previous refrigerant phase-outs, there is a runway of time before 410A refrigerant and replacement parts are depleted. For now, homeowners will need to consider whether their system is worth repairing or it’s time to replace it.

Here are some things to consider:

Repair

Less than 2 repairs in the last 3 years
System worked great last year
Less than 10 years old
Refrigerant & parts readily available

REPLACE

Annual refrigerant refills
Poor cooling performance
More than 10 years old
It’s an R-22 system

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*Offer ends 5/31/2025. Offer limited to one per household. Does not apply to previously quoted AC units. Offers cannot be redeemed as a cash payout. Purchase must be a complete AC system including a condenser, air handler or cooling coil, and refrigeration line.

Refrigerant Changes are Happening in your AC System

Important Information For All Air Conditioning Equipment!

The EPA has mandated that all air conditioning equipment manufactured after January 1, 2025, use R454B refrigerant.

R454B has a significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than R410A. There are no ozone-depleting compounds, it has low toxicity compared to past refrigerants, and it has proven to be more energy efficient in the US Department of Energy testing.

FAQs on The EPA’s Latest Refrigerant Change

Can I still buy a R410A system?

Yes, but only for a limited time. HVAC manufacturers are shifting production to R-454B systems, and R-410A models will no longer be available after the transition. If you buy an R-410A system now, you may face limited availability for equipment and servicing in the future.

Do I need to replace my current system?

No, you do not need to replace your current system as long as it still runs efficiently.

• If you still have an R22 system, we no longer provide this refrigerant due to this phase-out being complete.

• If you have an R410A system, replacement parts and the refrigerant are currently available.

In either case, as your system ages and nears replacement or begins to require costly repairs, you will need to consider your options.

Can you retrofit my current system?

Most systems currently installed do not meet the system requirements for R-454B, so retrofitting is highly unlikely.

Installation changes with R454B systems

Due to the EPA’s guidelines regarding R-454B, installation of your air conditioning equipment will look a bit different.

• System piping (lines) – different sizes required

• Concealed lines can no longer be used (hidden in wall cavities)

• Additional leak sensors required

• Permitting may be required

• Carpenters may be necessary to gain access to run new lines

Servicing a R454B system

Maintenance recommendations on R-454B systems remain the same as existing systems and will be available under our current Cooling Protection Plan. For our technicians, they will be required to utilize some new tools and procedures to work with the refrigerant.

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Have additional questions?

Our Comfort Specialists are here to guide you through this transition. Please contact our office at 203.227.5181 to begin the conversation.