Top Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner Before Summer Hits
You might be wondering if its time to replace your ac. Summer is on its way, and for Floridians, that means time spent dwelling on what can sometimes seem like the threshold of an inferno. Your air conditioner is about to be the most essential appliance in your home. So, when is the right time for an air conditioner replacement?
Is your AC system aging? Inefficient? It might be time to replace it. Waiting means that you might experience failures on hot days, expensive emergency service calls, and high energy bills. HVAC vendors may have days or weeks-long wait lists for service. Here are some signs that you should get a new system before the mercury soars.
1. Your AC Is 10-15 Years Old
AC systems typically have a 10 to 15-year lifespan. If your unit is 10 or more years old, then even if it’s still working well, it’s likely outdated and inefficient. Upgrading now will help reduce your cooling costs significantly and reduce the risk of a potentially terminal breakdown in the middle of August.
2. Frequent Repairs Are Adding Up
Are you spending a lot of money on repairs? Occasional repairs are standard, but if you have your HVAC technician on speed dial, it’s likely time to consider a replacement. You’re going to end up spending more than the cost of a new system on service calls.
If your unit is unreliable, it’s time to bite the bullet and replace it.
3. Your Energy Bills Are Creeping Up
Cooling is a significant percentage of your electricity bill. If your bills are slowly creeping up, then something in your cooling system might not be working well. Take into account, of course, any increased usage and compare it to similar conditions in previous years.
A newer system will likely have a higher SEER (Seasonal Efficiency Energy Ratio) rating, delivering better performance and using less energy. You may see significant improvements.
4. Your Home Isn’t Cooling Evenly
Your bedroom is a sauna while you can practically leave perishable produce out on the kitchen counter. Or you seem to be adjusting the thermostat constantly. This is a sign that your system isn’t maintaining consistent airflow.
This might be caused by wear and tear on an older system. However, it could also indicate that you or the home’s previous owner tried to save money by installing a system that isn’t up to the size of your home. Both are good reasons to replace your AC.
5. You Hear Strange Noises Or Smell Unusual Odors
Now is the time to do an air conditioner replacement when you hear strange noises or smell unusual odors. Broken HVAC systems can produce banging, rattling, or squealing noises or musty smells. Don’t forget to check the outdoor unit for odd noises as well. All of this indicates a serious issue that, at the very least, needs to be repaired. Recurring noises can indicate significant mechanical failures and may be cheaper to replace. A nasty smell is often mold growth, especially typical in Florida’s humid climate, which can impact your and your family’s health.
6. Humidity Issues Are Increasing
Your HVAC also controls humidity, and in Florida, it’s often true that it is the humidity, not the temperature, that is making you miserable. If your home still feels sticky or muggy with the AC going full blast, your system is not effectively removing moisture from the air. Some people resort to a dehumidifier but look at your AC system before you do so. Modern systems are better at controlling humidity without extra help.
7. Your System Still Uses R-22 Refrigerant
This is also known as Freon and has been phased out for years. It’s now hard to find, expensive, and dangerous to the environment. If you have one of these ancient systems, you should upgrade immediately. Not only will you save money, but you will also help the environment and your health with current, eco-friendly refrigerants.
It’s also a sign that your system is not up to modern efficiency standards.
Contact Us
We hope you learned a lot about air conditioner replacement.
Don’t wait for a summer breakdown. If your A/C needs replacing, do it now to improve your comfort, reduce your bills, and help you avoid emergency calls in the middle of a heatwave.
Let Aztil Air help you choose the right system for your home and budget after determining whether replacement is warranted. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and estimate before the heat arrives.
