How to Know When AC Replacement Is Needed
Having a working air conditioner is essential during the hot summer months, and nobody wants their air conditioner to fail and break down during a hot day. Recognizing the signs that air conditioning replacement is needed and calling a professional to replace the air conditioner can ensure the home has reliable cooling and save homeowners from the discomfort and stress of waiting until they are stuck in an uncomfortable home to replace it. This post will discuss some of the most common signs that indicate AC replacement is needed.
Old Age
An aging air conditioner might be sending clear signals that it’s time for replacement. Most AC units have a lifespan of between 10 and 20 years, so if an air conditioner is over 10 years old and starts experiencing issues, it’s a sign that replacement is needed, and a technician should be called to inspect it.
When an air conditioner has been in service for over 10 years and develops performance issues, it's often more economical to replace it rather than pay for air conditioner repair on an old unit. Not only does a new air conditioning installation lead to more reliable performance and fewer repairs, but a new air conditioner will also be more energy efficient with lower cooling costs than an older one because efficiency decreases over time. Additionally, older systems frequently use outdated refrigerants that are being phased out.
Frequent or Costly Repairs
Is the air conditioner becoming a money pit? Frequent repairs on an aging air conditioner also indicate it's time for a replacement rather than another fix. Costs add up quickly when an air conditioner needs too many repairs, so replacing the AC unit can be more cost-effective in the long run.
Even if air conditioners don’t need frequent repairs, the need for a particularly expensive repair can also make a new air conditioner installation make more financial sense. When the cost of an AC repair exceeds 50 percent of a new unit's cost, replacement often becomes the more economical choice. A professional can inspect the system and determine if air conditioner repair or replacement makes more sense for a household based on factors like the problem and the unit’s age.
High Energy Bills
High energy bills can also serve as a sign to replace an old air conditioner. High cooling costs indicate the AC system is operating inefficiently. This inefficiency forces the system to work harder and longer to cool the home, raising the cost to run it. However, an old air conditioner that has lost efficiency over time and needs replacement isn’t the only possible cause of inefficiency.
Neglected air conditioner maintenance and issues like a refrigerant leak or leaking ductwork can also cause inefficiency and higher energy bills. So, if the system has been properly maintained and the air conditioner is newer, it likely needs repair. However, if the home has an aging air conditioner, the high cooling costs can signal the need for replacement.
About Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating
Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating has more than 40 years of experience serving the Corpus Christi community. They provide no surprise pricing, thorough clean up, and super friendly service. Call them for air conditioner replacement and installation services in Corpus Christi, TX.
