When your air conditioner starts acting up, even after doing regular maintenance, you might think you can save money by replacing only the outdoor unit. After all, the condenser inside your home takes the brunt of the weather and often fails first. However, it’s only one half of your cooling system. Is it a good idea to replace one part alone?
Yes, you can replace the outdoor unit alone, and even when it’s done by a reliable AC service provider in Winnipeg, but it’s rarely a good idea. Let’s find out why!
How AC Units Work
The majority of Winnipeg homes use a split system air conditioner. In other words, your system has two parts. The outdoor condenser unit houses the compressor, fan, and condenser coil. The indoor unit is often part of your furnace and contains the evaporator coil.
These components are designed to work together. They share refrigerant, airflow, and efficiency ratings. If one part is new and the other outdated, your system won’t function as efficiently, lowering performance and comfort.
Replacing the Outside Unit Alone
Technically, you can replace just the condenser. However, this is only under certain circumstances. The following factors come into play:
- Compatibility: The new condenser has to be compatible with your existing indoor coil and refrigerant type. Older systems run on R-22 refrigerant, which has since been phased out. New systems use R-410A, which isn’t compatible with old coils.
- Age of Your System: If your indoor coil or furnace is more than 10 years old, pairing it with a brand-new outdoor unit usually causes more problems than it solves.
- Manufacturer Guidelines: The majority of manufacturers need matched systems to be covered by warranties. As a result, replacing one side can void the warranty.
So you can swap out only the outdoor unit in some cases. However, it’s not usually as practical or cost-effective.
Risks of Only Replacing the Outside Unit
Replacing the outdoor unit alone is risky. There are several potential downsides. Consider the following:
- Lower Efficiency: Your system is as efficient as its weakest part. A new condenser can’t reach its rated SEER efficiency if paired with an old indoor coil.
- Frequent Repairs: Mismatched units have to work harder. This leads to frequent breakdowns, costly service calls, and a shorter system lifespan.
- Warranty Problems: Manufacturers may not honor warranties if components aren’t installed as a matched system.
- Higher Long-Term Costs: Replacing the outside unit alone might save money upfront, but you’ll be spending more on energy bills and additional replacements down the line.
Replacing the full system makes more sense. It provides better comfort, aligned warranties, and peace of mind. However, there are times when replacing one part is okay. We’ll get into that next.
When to Only Replace the Outdoor Unit
As we mentioned, replacing the condenser alone carries more risks than rewards. With that said, there are times when it’s okay. Consider the following:
- Your indoor coil is a few years old and covered by the warranty
- Both units use the same refrigerant and are fully compatible
- You plan to sell your home soon
Even in these cases, it’s best to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your system. They can confirm whether a standalone replacement is safe and efficient.
Call a Professional Before You Decide
Can you replace just the outside AC unit? Yes, but it’s not recommended. The xtwo parts of your air conditioner work together as a system. Mismatched parts can lead to inefficiency, frequent breakdowns, and higher long-term costs. At Lynn’s Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we recommend solutions that suit your home and budget.
In need of a repair, partial air conditioning replacement, or full system upgrade? Contact us to schedule an inspection today!
