Understanding Filter Concerns

If you had a tree fall on your outside central air conditioning unit and you aren't sure if the unit should be repaired, or if instead, you should replace it, you want to see what the air conditioning professionals estimate for the damage. The age of the unit, cost for replacement, and your insurance input all should impact this decision.

Call the service experts and ask them to come give you a quote and to evaluate the potential damage to the ventilation system going into the house as well. Here are some of the considerations to make.

Damage to the Frame or Motor

If the outer metal frame and shell to the air conditioning are badly damaged, there is a good chance that the internal mechanical components are damaged. The service repair professional will work to get the frame off and then evaluate the main components, like:

• Motor
• Compressor
• Condenser and evaporator coils
• Pipes

These are just some of the items that need to be restored to make the unit work properly. If the majority of these are in good condition and the unit just needs a new exterior covering, the unit should be able to be saved.

Potential for Replacement

You don't want to invest a lot of money in repairs if the unit is older, if the repairs are more than half of the cost of a new unit, and if service repair professionals aren't sure if the repairs will work. If you are making an insurance claim and will have the extra money, it may be time to consider replacement instead of repair.

If you are considering a new air conditioning unit for the home, make sure that the new upgraded unit has these things:

• Efficiency settings
• Over 90 percent efficiency during operation
• Programmable and timer settings
• Wireless control
• Warranty from the manufacturer

You want a new unit that will be cost-efficient to run, and the air conditioning service company should offer a service warranty for the installation.

If you can't see how bad the AC unit is damaged internally, don't try to get inside the unit on your own. Once the tree is removed safely, wait for the air conditioning repair team to get to your house and get inside the unit. Then you will be able to determine if you are ready for a new unit, or if you can keep the unit you have.

For more information, contact a local air conditioning service.