Is it Time to Replace Your AC Unit? Signs to Look Out For
This question comes up at least once for most homeowners; the question of whether it is time to buy a new AC unit. After all, these units come with a lifespan that makes itself known with time. If you’ve lived in your home for a while, you may not even be aware of the age of your unit but its many issues may have you wishing for a new one. Read on to learn if your AC needs to be replaced and feel free to reach out to the best air conditioning service in LaGrange if these signs resonate with you.
Think About Replacing Your AC Unit When…
There are a series of issues that present themselves in an AC unit when it is on the brink of failure. Its age, frequent repairs, odd smells, and noises are all reasons to contemplate a possible replacement.
It is Getting Old
Most air conditioning units are designed to serve a home for about 15-20 years. The total number of years your AC lasts depends on its manufacturer and maintenance. Those ACs that are frequently serviced by an AC tech can last 20 years or more, allowing you to get the maximum of their use. Thus, if you haven’t had one of those tune-ups in a while, we recommend contacting an air conditioning service in LaGrange today!
It Breaks Down Frequently
An AC that is due for a replacement will also begin to break down frequently. This problem is a normal sign of wear and tear in any mechanical system like an air conditioning unit. The longer it operates, the more of its parts will wear out and require replacement. Some air conditioning units develop problems with their air compressor, which is a very expensive repair. When this begins to occur, a replacement of the entire AC is a far more cost-effective option since compressors are very expensive to replace.
The Energy Bills are Increasing
Have you noticed your energy bills increasing over the last few months? That may be due to the AC’s poor function. Old air conditioners tend to lose their efficiency over time, which causes them to consume more energy and rack up extraordinary monthly costs. Here are some things that would cause your AC to produce higher energy bills:
- Poor insulation
- Leaky ducts
- Outdated equipment
- Neglected maintenance
- Improper usage
- Refrigerant leaks
- Malfunctioning capacitors
- Broken blow motor
If your energy bills are getting out of hand, it is best to have an air conditioning service tech in LaGrange investigate the issue and help restore those efficiency levels. Otherwise, you will continue to lose money monthly.
It Doesn’t Cool Consistently
A poorly functioning air conditioning unit will also lead to inconsistent cooling throughout the house. You may begin to feel warm in one room and cold in another. This will create a lot of discomfort in a home before it causes the system to fail. If this is your problem, an AC replacement is most likely not far in your future.
There Are Weird Noises and Smells Coming From the Unit
Some air conditioning units begin to make weird sounds and produce foul odors while operating. If this is the case with your air conditioning unit, it is likely time to replace it. Here are the most common AC sounds that indicate a needed replacement:
- Grinding or squealing: indicates a problem with the motor or fan belt that is costly to replace
- Rattling or banging: caused by worn-out components of the AC unit
- Clicking sounds: caused by short cycling
- Hissing or bubbling sounds: indicates a refrigerant leak
Also, watch out for these weird smells that indicate a needed replacement:
- Musty or moldy odor: caused by mold growth
- Burning or electrical smell: indicates something burning within the unit
- Rotten eggs: caused by a gas leak in a gas-powered AC unit
- Chemical smells: indicates a refrigerant fluid leak
All of these issues are indicative of possible problems that will require an AC replacement. For more information, read our 7 common signs of AC Replacement. Contact an AC repair tech to get assistance with troubleshooting these smells and sounds.
Air Conditioning Service In LaGrange
Are you contemplating replacing your air conditioning unit? Contact Air Force today to set up a consultation to get an assessment of your unit and an estimate of the costs!
