If your A/C condenser is on its last legs; the immediate questions you may have are what’s the replacement cost? And is it worth it? Below, we answer all your questions for you.
What is an A/C Condenser?
The condenser is the outdoor component of your A/C system. The condenser unit houses the compressor, the condenser coil, the expansion valve, the fan and motor, the capacitor, and more.
The condenser coil plays a critical role in the cooling system. During the cooling cycle, the condenser coil releases absorbed heat into the outdoor air. When this component develops a leak, it likely needs replacement.
This can happen due to:
- Wear and tear
- Corrosion
- Physical damage
- Improper installation
- Poor maintenance, leading to grime buildup and the system working harder
Should I Replace The Condenser Coil or The Whole Unit?
This depends on your warranty.
Under Warranty
If your outdoor unit is less than 10 years old or still under warranty, replacing the condenser coil may be your best option. However, it can be a labour intensive process so ask for a quote on replacement to better evaluate your options.
Out of Warranty
If your outdoor unit is over 10 years old and out of warranty, replacing the whole unit may be a better option. This is beneficial because you will get a unit that is compatible with approved refrigerants like R-454B, have peace of mind through the summer, and have less ongoing repair calls.
Financing With Able Air
If the upfront cost of a new unit is making you hesitate, we offer flexible financing options so that you can spread the costs out instead of paying in full. Financing allows you to get the unit you need for a comfortable summer without struggling with the upfront cost.
How Can I Protect My AC Condenser This Summer?
To maintain your unit, we recommend you:
- Change the air filter regularly, every 30-90 days year-round.
- Keep the area around the outdoor unit clear on all sides for proper airflow.
- Keep the indoor supply registers and return air vents clear to help ensure proper airflow.
- Schedule professional HVAC maintenance in the spring before the cooling season. Professional maintenance can include cleaning the indoor and outdoor coils and performing many other tasks to help your system run at peak performance.
- Consider an Able Air Maintenance & Protection Plan for peace of mind knowing that your unit is getting the best care possible.
Need a replacement?
Contact Able Air today for a free quote!
With over 20 years of experience in the HVAC industry, Able Air Conditioning & Heating proudly serves homeowners and businesses in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and nearby areas. Our award-winning team of licensed technicians is dedicated to providing reliable equipment and service our clients can trust.
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