how old is too old for an a/c?

Question

my central a/c heat pump is 19 yrs old, my coils are completely blocked. got an estimate for 325 to clean the coils.

Answer 1

When you consider how inefficient a 19-year-old model is, your payback on buying a new 13 SEER or better unit will be very short. You'll have less maintenance, lower bills and better air quality than with such an old unit. Also, the price for peace of mind is hard to gauge -- since your unit could still die at any time after cleaning the coils, you should keep that in mind, too.

Many dealers work with manufacturers who have financing programs. You can also get what's called an EEM (energy efficient mortgage) from Fannie Mae, should you decide to get a highly efficient unit. You should also look into the new tax credits available to Americans who install highly efficient HVAC systems in their homes -- you can get up to $300 as a tax credit.

So... in short, I think 19 years is long enough. If you spend $325 to clean the coils, you're throwing money away at a very short-term solution to what will be a long-term problem. Your money's better spent buying a new energy-efficient unit.

Answer 2

air conditioning and refrigeration institute says average life expectancy of a heat pump system is 9 to 15 years depending on the care given to the system. If the technician says the coil cleaning is all that is wrong at this time then may be worthwhile depending on the physical condition of system. Also think about the age vs. power consumption. Power wise, maybe time to replace with higher efficiency.

Answer 3

i would clean the coils and keep the old unit to clean the out side just take the water hose turn on high and spray the coil to wash the dirt and lent and junk off of it when it is clean you should be able to see water go through it the in side one you might have to cut a hole in the sheet metal big enough to get a brush on a vacume in it and clean it that way save the money and do it your self

Answer 4

Just replace the bad components. Todays crap is all B.S and expensive. The old stuff is basic and works solid. Don't fall for the effiency number trap or suffer with heat. When I want A.C, I want COOL! Maintainence is always an issue, do it once or every 2 years. Get somebody who really knows what they're doing without any shortcuts ! Nothing breaks down all at once.
It's all about maintainence too.

Answer 5

It will cost you a lot more to replace it.However that old you should be saveing up for a new one...