Wondering if it’s about time to say goodbye to your home’s AC system? Is it worth the cost to repair? Or, should you be proactive and replace it before it dies during the hottest month when everyone is booked solid? Whatever the case may be, here are eight sure signs that indicate it may be time to replace your air conditioning system.
It may be time to call a professional contractor to help you make a change if:
1. Your air conditioner or heat pump is 10+ years old
Your typical air conditioning unit can live [on average] for about 10-15 years (dependent upon the amount of professional maintenance it’s had over its lifetime). If your air conditioner hasn’t seen too much maintenance and is growing closer to its retirement age, it might be time to start shopping around. Though the cost to replace might be intimidating, it is important to note that newer, more energy-efficient units can save you up to 20% on cooling costs in the long run.
2. A major replacement is needed and your system is out of warranty
Replacement parts and repairs (like your outdoor unit’s compressor or fan motor) unfortunately aren’t always worth paying for when the cost gets too high – especially when your air conditioner is aging and the warranty has expired. In these cases, it often makes sense to replace the entire system as a whole, which can ultimately save you from more costly repairs in the near future.
3. You’re experiencing frequent [and costly] repairs
As technology continues to advance, older units are becoming less efficient. For example, let’s say your unit uses an increasingly costly refrigerant called R-22 – Unfortunately, the industry is in the midst of a government-regulated transition from R-22 refrigerant (aka “Freon”) to the new, more environmentally friendly R-410a refrigerant. Because we are in the latter stages of this decade plus long transition, the cost of R-22 refrigerant will only continue to increase dramatically as it becomes less and less available. As such, our technicians generally do not recommend repairing those older R-22-based systems, as it does not serve as the most cost-effective solution in the long run.
4. You’re experiencing uneven home cooling
Have you noticed lately that while some areas in your home are quite cool, others seem to be unbearably hot? This could indicate improper equipment operation, ductwork issues, or inadequate installation, which, in turn, can boost your energy bills at an uncontrollable rate. Sealing some ductwork could very well solve your dust issue, but it’s important to get a professional to diagnose the problem first.
5. You’re experiencing humidity problems in your home
Sticky, humid homes could indicate poor equipment operation, inadequate equipment, or leaky ductwork. Same thing here – have a professional stop by to check it out!
6. Your home has excessive amounts of dust throughout
Leaky ducts can suck up particles and air from attics, crawl spaces and basements and distribute them throughout the home. A simple sealing of your ductwork could solve this issue, but definitely reach out for a professional opinion first!
7. Your system is noisy
Find it hard to ignore the humming and buzzing noises in your home from your air conditioner? You might have an undersized duct system, or quite possibly a problem with the indoor blower of your cooling equipment that may need some adjusting.
8. Your energy bills are higher than usual
Check out your old energy bills from the past few summers and see if they have steadily been rising. Next, figure out how many kilowatts you’re using in comparison to other people in your neighborhood. Notice a significant difference between your current bills versus your ones from last summer? It might be time to replace your air conditioner – which can ultimately save you thousands on bills over time.
If you’re experiencing one or more of these issues with your home’s comfort system, feel free to reach out to us today at (512) 866-9821 . One of our friendly customer service representatives would be delighted to assist you in setting up an appointment to diagnose your problem!
