Air conditioning issues always seem to happen at the most inconvenient time. It usually happens that your system won’t go out on a warm spring day when a nice breeze is blowing. Instead, your system will decide to quit on an extremely hot day with high humidity when the equipment is pushed to its limits. To ensure that you aren’t left suffering during the peak of the summer, you’ll want to be sure that your HVAC system is in good working order. Regular maintenance will help improve the performance of your cooling system and keep it running through the tough demands of the summer months. Even with maintenance, however, every unit will need replacing eventually.
Most experts agree that the average AC unit will last from 12 to 15 years. With regular maintenance, you might be able to extend the life of your equipment. However, over time it will begin to wear out. As the unit ages, it will slowly become more inefficient, and the need for repairs will become more frequent. You will also begin to notice problems with the temperature consistency in your house as time, and use take a toll on your air conditioner. Older, inefficient systems can leave you with costly repairs, uncomfortable temperatures, and expensive energy bills.
If you have an older unit that continues to give you problems, it might be time to consider a replacement. So, what are the signs that your AC needs a replacement? Let’s look at some common signs that could signal the need for a new air conditioner.
Inconsistent Temperatures
When it gets particularly hot and humid outside, you might start to notice that your cooling system has a hard time keeping up. Inconsistent indoor temperatures could be due to numerous issues like a damaged thermostat, low fluid levels, clogged filters, leaking ductwork, or other problems. It could also signal the need for a new AC. An aging air conditioner will often struggle to maintain a consistent temperature in your home.
Temperature inconsistencies usually indicate that your air conditioning system is not powerful enough to supply sufficient air throughout your home. If your system is no longer capable of delivering cold air around the house, it could mean that you need a replacement ac system.
Numerous Repairs
A common sign that your AC unit needs to be replaced is the need for more frequent repairs. An air conditioner in working order should only require filter changes and annual maintenance. As the system ages, however, it will require more attention. Expensive parts like condenser, compressor, and capacitor will start to fail and require more attention. The number of issues and the cost of frequent repairs will start to add up quickly. When you notice that there are a number of things wrong with your system, you should consider a replacement. If you are on the fence about a new system, most experts recommend replacement if the repair costs are more than half the cost of a new AC.
Increased Energy Bills
While there will be seasonal differences in energy costs, your annual bills should be similar from month to month. If you find that your energy bills are steadily increasing over the previous year, there is a good chance that your system isn’t as efficient as it used to be. As systems age, efficiency typically decreases. Regular maintenance can help address efficiency issues. However, over time you will notice a decline in performance. Upgrading to a high-efficiency air conditioner can cut your energy bills by as much as 20 percent.
Regularly maintaining your air conditioner will help address many problems over the life of your AC unit. In time, however, your system will wear down and will require replacement. If you notice an increase in issues with your system, it might be time to consider a new unit.