One of the hardest decisions a homeowner has to make is when to repair an air conditioning unit or when to replace it. With such a big investment on the line, you want to make sure you’re getting the most for your money.
Luckily, your air conditioner will help you make that difficult decision. All you have to do is watch for the signs it gives.
To help you figure out the clues, we’ve made a list of 6 telltale signs it’s time for an air conditioning replacement.
1. It’s Not Blowing Cold Air
Is the air coming out of your vents lukewarm when it should be cold? An air conditioner having trouble keeping your home comfortable is an obvious sign something’s wrong.
Sometimes it’s a simple cause such as low refrigerant levels. Yet, if it’s a big problem or a pricey repair, it may be more cost-effective to get a new unit.
2. You Notice Strange Noises or Smells
If your air conditioner is making grinding, rattling, or screeching noises, it’s trying to tell you there’s a big problem! The same holds true for unusual smells coming from the unit.
Turn off the system immediately. You don’t want the damage to get worse or cause contaminated air to circulate through the house. Call in a professional to assess if the air conditioner needs replaced.
3. It Needs Frequent Repairs
The older your air conditioner gets; the more frequent repair issues happen. If these repairs are now becoming a common occurrence, it’s time for an air conditioning replacement.
The cost of repeated repairs adds up quickly. You’ll save more money in the long run by putting those funds toward a new unit.
4. Higher Energy Bills
Even if there are no external signs of a problem, your monthly energy bill could be telling a different story. Has the bill spiked for no known reason? If so, it’s time to do an energy audit of your house.
When all signs point to your air conditioner, replacing it with a more energy-efficient unit will cut the cost of those bills and keep your home more comfortable.
5. It’s Leaking
Aside from a small amount of condensation on some air conditioners, the outside unit should generally remain dry. What’s not normal are large pools of moisture puddling around the unit.
Call in a professional to look at it right away. A refrigerant leak is dangerous to your family or pooling water could seep into your home’s foundation. If the repair is major, a new unit may be the best way to go.
6. The Unit is More Than 10 Years Old
In general, the lifespan of most air conditioning units is about 10 to 15 years. If yours is reaching that endpoint, consider getting a replacement.
Technology has greatly improved since you last bought an air conditioning unit. You’ll find a new system will save you more money on energy bills and be more efficient than your older model.
Cool down with an Air Conditioning Replacement
Now you’ll no longer wonder when to invest in an air conditioning replacement. By knowing the telltale signs, you can decide with ease and relax in your comfortably cool home.
Need us to install your new air conditioner? Contact us today! We’d be happy to put our 30 years of experience to work for you.
