When you install a new air conditioner in your home, the last thing on your mind is when you will replace it. While properly maintained air conditioners can last for a number of years, it will come a time when you will have to replace them.
Many homeowners know this, unfortunately, most of them don’t know the right time to do it. To help you out, here are signs that it’s time to replace your unit as given by HVAC contractors:
The air conditioner is more than 12 years old
The average age of air conditioners is 12 years. After this time, the unit starts developing issues and you have to replace it. You should note that if your unit is this old but its working optimally you don’t have anything to worry about. On the other hand, if the unit keeps on failing, you should think of getting a new one.
Some people repair their appliances when they develop issues, but you shouldn’t do it as you will be wasting your money. This is because the unit will keep on failing. The solution is to get a new appliance.
The air conditioner frequently passes out
This is a clear sign that your unit isn’t going to last for a long time. If your air conditioner keeps on breaking down, it’s time that you think about a new one. This is more important if the unit is more than a decade old.
An air conditioner that keeps on failing is not only frustrating to have, it also tends to be expensive to have. This is because you have to hire an AC repair professional every now and then to fix it. When you hire the professional a few times every month, the costs can quickly add up.
You have noticed an increase in your utility bill
A sudden spike in your electricity bill doesn’t necessarily mean that your AC has run its course and it’s time to get a new one, but it’s a major indicator that it’s time to get a new one.
A high power bill is an indicator of an inefficient air conditioner. Before you make the decision that you should get a new appliance, you should first hire a professional to help you with the inspection of the appliance. If the appliance is new and the bill is high, chances are that you have installed a wrongly sized appliance.
You should return the appliance to the store you bought it from and you will most likely get a refund. The company can even exchange the unit for you.
On the other hand, if the power bill is increasing and the appliance is old, you are better off getting a new one.
The AC is no longer cooling the air
The role of the air conditioner is to cool the air; therefore, when it’s not doing its job, you have something to be worried about. When you set the thermostat at a given temperature it’s supposed to cool the air at that temperature.
If you have set it and it’s not cooling the house, contact an AC repair professional to inspect the source of the problem.
Sometimes the unit will fail to cool the air when there are problems with the coolant or ventilation. If this is the cause of the problem, you should replace the faulty parts—not the entire system.
On the other hand, if you notice that all the parts are okay and still the unit isn’t cooling the house, you should go ahead and replace it.
The unit is producing strange sounds
A properly working air conditioner is supposed to function quietly; therefore, when you notice grinding, chattering, or squeaking sounds, you have a reason of concern. This is because strange sounds are often signs of aging.
Just like with the other issues, don’t rush to your local store to buy a new appliance simply because you have noticed weird sounds. Before you go to the stores you should ask your local air conditioner repair McLean professionals to give a look at the unit.
In some cases, you may find that it’s the fan that is touching the sides of the unit and all you need to do is to line it up. If the unit is old and you have to replace it, ensure that the work is done by a professional.
