When the weather is hot and you need your AC to work, you certainly don’t want it to fail and have to replace it. So, before the heat arrives, do your due diligence and determine whether it makes sense for you to buy a new unit now. Here are 13 things that may indicate it is time for a new air conditioner.
The first few signs are related to comfort and functionality.
1. Age. Air conditioning units have a life of about 15 years. So even if things seem to be working fine, if your AC is approaching that age, it might make sense to invest in a new unit before your existing one fails. And most likely, your warranty has expired so the cost of any repairs on your aging unit would come out of your pocket.
2. Blowing warm or hot air. The main reason you have an AC is to keep comfortable. If your unit is not blowing cool air, you won’t be comfortable.
3. Weak airflow. The cool air is not going to do much good if the airflow out of your vents is poor.
4. Uneven temperatures. Are some rooms in your home cooler than others? If your AC is not cooling rooms evenly, that’s another sign you may need a new air conditioner
5. Excessive humidity. Another way air conditioners provide comfort is by reducing humidity. If the air in your home is humid, that not only will disrupt comfort, but can lead to the development of allergens such as mold. That is a health risk for people with allergies and respiratory conditions such as asthma.
The following signs relate to cost.
6. Running constantly. Your air conditioner should cycle on and off as it cools your home. If it is running constantly, that will increase your electric bill and could be a sign of a problem.
7. Lots of repairs. If you are making frequent repairs, perhaps it is time to replace the unit, especially if it is out of warranty. One rule of thumb is to multiply the age of the unit by the cost of the repair. If it is higher than $5,000, consider a new air conditioner.
8. Rising energy bills. The U.S. Energy Information Agency notes that 19% of a household’s electricity use is for cooling. So, if your energy bills are rising, and it is not due to warmer temperatures or higher rates, your unit is losing efficiency. Fortunately, new units are much more energy efficient, so you will be saving money in the long run.
Here are some other things that might suggest it is time to replace your unit.
9. Strange noises. It is normal for the AC unit to make some noises as it starts and stops. But loud or unusual noises such as banging, buzzing, rattling, screeching, whistling, grating and grinding could be a sign the motor is failing, which would be a major repair.
10. Foul odors. Unpleasant moldy or musty smells could indicate the presence of bacteria, fungus, mold or mildew which are also health hazards.
11. Leaks. Leaks are another sign you may have a problem. If it is a refrigerant leak, that is also a health hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.
12. Frozen coils. If the coils are freezing, that could be a problem with refrigerant, or other components. This could cause the compressor to overheat and burn out.
13. Electrical issues. Problems such as loose connections or frayed wires can damage the electrical components of your system.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing to See if You Need a New Air Conditioner
The NATE-certified HVAC technicians at Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric can help you determine whether you need a new air conditioner and can help you select and then install the system that meets your needs. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 97 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians and superior service (including 24/7/365 emergency service). That is why we have made a name for ourselves as the most trusted and reliable plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to learn more, and to schedule an appointment.
