When To Replace AC System
Although installing a central air conditioning system is expensive, most of them are only designed to last about ten years. Your system should be able to lower the temperature just enough to allow people to enjoy their activities while awake while also reducing the humidity level that adds to the discomfort of summer heat. It should be as energy-efficient as possible while ensuring the highest level of comfort throughout the house.
Even with routine maintenance, your air conditioning system might eventually stop working well enough to keep your home comfortable during the hottest portion of the summer. Here are a few signs that it might be time to replace the AC system.
1. Age
Even though it may seem obvious, you should start getting ready to buy a new air conditioner if yours is growing older. Older air conditioners have a lifespan of about 10–12 years, while modern air conditioners can last up to 15-20 years. In contrast to furnaces, air conditioners spend more time outdoors and are subjected to extreme temps year-round, which reduces their lifespan.
Your AC’s health and effectiveness rely on various elements, including how well you maintained the system throughout its lifetime. Your air conditioner’s lifespan could be shorter than it should be if you neglect to have it serviced annually. The unit’s lifespan can also be impacted by how frequently you use it, how hot and humid it is where you live, and whether or not the unit was bought for your house at the appropriate size.
Expect to need a substitute for your air conditioner in about 10 to 15 years if you maintain it well throughout its lifespan. Remember that as your air conditioner ages, its mechanical components may become inaccessible or outdated.
2. Frequent breakdowns
Your air conditioner shouldn’t break down in the middle of the heat if you have yearly maintenance performed by licensed technicians. Lack of maintenance is the root of many typical AC problems, so having your unit serviced will stop them. HVAC technicians can also preemptively identify and correct any issues your AC might be experiencing before the summer season starts.
In light of this, it’s the reason for concern if your AC keeps breaking down despite routine maintenance. Even if you don’t need a new air conditioner immediately, you should start getting ready for one in case yours breaks down.
Frequent failures also mean regular repairs, and those repairs can get expensive. Buying a new appliance may eventually be more cost-effective when costly repairs become necessary—mainly if your warranty has already run out.
3. High energy bills
Your home’s energy usage should stay the same over a month, except for the heating and cooling seasons, when it may vary slightly. It might be time to replace the AC system if your energy consumption patterns haven’t changed but your monthly cost has.
Higher energy costs may indicate that your air conditioner is inefficient or malfunctioning. The two problems may be linked as energy costs increase as an air conditioner ages.
One or two high energy bills are not the reason for concern. However, you might need to start searching for a new air conditioner if your energy costs increase and don’t decrease.
4. Uneven cooling
The air conditioner in your house is designed to reduce humidity because high humidity levels make a space feel stuffier. The system will keep the house’s temps steady when it’s working. If the cooling component of your HVAC system cannot perform these tasks, there may be a problem with your ducts or a malfunction with your equipment.
5. Strange noises
You undoubtedly wonder if the loud noises your air conditioner makes are normal if you hear them. The sounds you hear from your indoor air handler or outdoor unit may indicate typical air conditioning problems that need repair services if they differ from the normal humming you’re used to hearing.
Any loud noises from your air conditioner indicate that the system needs to be repaired or replaced.
6. Poor air quality
If dust still appears in your house, even after cleaning, this is a strong sign that the ductwork leaks. Your air conditioning system’s effectiveness will be harmed by those leaks, which will raise the cost of operating.
When your air conditioning system has issues, it’s time to call in the professionals at Acadiana Comfort Systems. Our technicians can determine whether a minor repair is manageable or time to replace the AC system. If a new unit is needed, we review everything based on your needs and home size. We want you to feel comfortable with your decision.
