Signs You Need an AC Replacement

Is it time to replace your old AC unit? Our tips will help you decide!

When Is It Time to Replace Your AC?

When the summertime weather gets hot and humid, your air-conditioned home can be a cool and relaxing haven. Your AC will keep your indoor air comfortable and fresh as the temperatures rise. A well-maintained unit will run efficiently and last for years. Still, over time, its parts can wear out or become obsolete. Eventually, you’ll need a new cooling system.

If your AC fails, you might wonder if you need to replace it. Spotting key signs of trouble can help you decide what to do next. Below, we’ll tell you what to look out for.

Your AC Is More Than 10–15 Years Old

If your AC has been running for ten years or more, it may be time for an overhaul. According to Energy Star, the average AC has a 10-15 year life span. Older air conditioners may be less efficient and reliable than newer, high-performance models. Since newer units use less energy, replacing your air conditioner can help you reduce your utility bills as you relax in quiet, hassle-free comfort. New ACs also come in a wide range of styles and sizes to suit any home.

You’re Constantly Paying for Repairs

As your air conditioner ages, you may factor repair bills into the cost of keeping it running. Dealing with frequent repairs can be an expensive hassle. If it costs more per year to keep your old AC going than you’d pay to operate a new one, it may be time for an AC unit replacement. Investing in an energy-efficient new system could save you from paying more in the long run.

Your Energy Bills Keep Climbing

If you notice a sudden spike in your electricity bill, your cooling system could be working too hard. An inefficient AC will use more energy to cool your home, resulting in higher operating expenses. If old, dirty, and malfunctioning components are straining your unit, they may eventually break down and fail, causing an additional headache. An air conditioning replacement that utilizes new energy-efficient technology can be a cost-effective investment. Call an experienced HVAC installation technician who can help you explore your options and recommend a budget-friendly solution that fits your needs.

You Experience Uneven Temperatures Throughout Your Home

If some rooms in your house feel cooler than others, you may be suffering from poor airflow. An inefficient or unreliable AC can have a hard time delivering cool air to your vents, which can lead to more serious problems. Poor airflow can contribute to moisture buildup in your system, encourage mold to grow in your ductwork, and make the air less healthy. A new air conditioning installation can help you regulate the temperature in your home and breathe in comfort.

You Notice Strange Noises or Unusual Smells

Most ACs make a moderate amount of predictable, mechanical noise, but if you hear unexpected banging, grinding, rattling, or squealing sounds, pay attention. Loose parts and belts, and failing motors and wiring can cause serious problems that need prompt attention, especially when they accompany the acrid odors of burning plastic or metal. In extreme cases, strange sounds and scents could indicate that a fire or catastrophic failure is imminent. You might also notice sour or musty odors that indicate your AC is malfunctioning. It’s important to take persistent and unusual noises and smells seriously and keep your family out of harm’s way. If the underlying problems are serious, you may need to replace your AC.

Your Home Feels More Humid Than Usual

Air conditioners do more than cool your home; they also help regulate its moisture levels. If it feels too humid inside, your AC may be failing to remove enough moisture from the air. Too-humid indoor air can contribute to the growth of allergens and make your home harder to maintain. A new AC installation can solve these problems and help you breathe easily.

Your AC Uses R-22 Refrigerant

If your AC uses R-22 coolant, also known as Freon, you should consider getting a new system. R-22 refrigerant causes environmental damage to the ozone layer, so governments are phasing it out. Since it’s no longer in production, it’s also becoming expensive and hard to find. If you want an eco-friendly AC that’s less expensive to repair, consider replacing your old cooling unit with a new one that uses R410-A refrigerant.

Your AC Unit Runs Constantly or Short-Cycles

A well-functioning air conditioner operates on a regular on-off cycle that maintains a consistent temperature in your home. If your AC is running constantly or short-cycling, it will use more energy and wear out your system over time, leading to higher energy bills and more frequent repairs. When it’s too difficult or costly to fix these issues, it’s time to invest in a new system.

You’re Planning to Sell or Renovate Your Home

When you’re looking to sell or renovate your home and increase your homes value, you should factor your HVAC system into your plans. A new AC can improve your quality of life and increase your home’s curb appeal. Upgraded cooling systems are more sustainable, reliable, and energy efficient, and these qualities can boost your property value. If you choose to sell your home, you may be able to increase its appraised value and command a higher asking price. While you live in your home, you’ll enjoy saving on your utility bills, which will offset the cost of a new unit.

Is It Worth Repairing, or Should You Replace It?

When replacing your air conditioner is on the horizon, a cost-benefit analysis can help make the decision easier. Try multiplying your repair costs by the age of your cooling system. If the total exceeds $5,000, consider replacing your AC. If your repair bills are low, you can hang on a bit longer. For instance, if you spend $500 to repair your 9-year-old air conditioner, your total would come to $4,500, so you might keep the unit you have and reevaluate your position when it breaks down again. However, if the repair costs $450 for a twelve-year-old air conditioner, your total would be $5,400, indicating that you should consider investing in a new unit.

Talk to a Trusted HVAC Pro About Your Options

If you think your AC is failing, why not get a second opinion? A qualified HVAC professional can assess your cooling system and suggest a repair or replacement. Don’t wait for a total breakdown—protect yourself from surprise costs and uncomfortable heat by calling Lakeland One Hour. We’re on time, or you don’t pay a dime!