It is possible to replace the condenser unit of your air conditioner without replacing the entire system. However, if your system is more than 10 years old, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire system. This is especially true if your system uses Freon R-22 instead of the newer refrigerant, R410a Puron. In this case, you would need to replace both the condensing unit and the evaporator coil in the attic to convert them to the new refrigerant.
This will ensure that the new coolant is not contaminated with the old one. Replacing a compressor in an air conditioning system can be expensive, so it's wise to consider replacing the entire system if your unit is more than 8 years old and its compressor fails. This can be a great opportunity to upgrade to a higher level of comfort and efficiency. On the other hand, if your system is still under warranty and only a couple of years old, it may be best to repair it. Most air conditioners have an average lifespan of between 10 and 15 years with regular maintenance. If your unit is nearing the end of its life and its compressor shuts off, it's advisable to replace the entire unit.
This is because when a unit reaches that age, the chances of suffering a mechanical breakdown increase significantly. If you only replace the faulty component, you may end up needing a new unit anyway. If your system is approaching 10 years old and its compressor has shut down, check if it's still under warranty. If so, you may be able to repair it for free or at least at a reduced cost. However, if your warranty has expired or your system is older than 8 years, it's best to replace it. When replacing your home's outdoor air conditioning unit, HVAC experts recommend that you also replace the indoor unit.
Not doing so can result in reduced efficiency, periodic failures, and increased cooling costs. Additionally, if you're installing a new mini inverter split system with ducts, make sure that all components match each other.
