With proper maintenance, an air conditioning system typically lasts around 15 years. When you experience frequent repairs or outages, however, you may need to install a new AC before then. In addition to frequent repairs and outages, there are other signs you need a new air conditioner. Read on to learn more about the signs your air conditioner needs to be replaced and how to prevent an outage during the hottest months of the year.
Common Signs It’s Time to Replace Your AC
Your air conditioner needs replaced if it’s showing any of the following warning signs:
- Your air conditioner is more than 15 years old
- Low energy efficiency
- Frequent repairs
- High indoor humidity
We’ll cover them in more detail below.
1.) Your Air Conditioner is More Than 15 Years Old
When properly maintained, air conditioners typically last around 15 years. If you are unsure of the age of your AC unit, schedule a maintenance check, and ask your technician. When your AC unit is roughly 12 years old, start planning for a replacement.
Professional HVAC contractors run through a rough cost and benefit analysis with you when your AC unit is 12 to 15 years old. If you find a major repair earlier and could upgrade to a more efficient model, consider it.
The difference in energy efficiency and the cost to operate often negates the replacement cost. This way you have the information you need to decide whether continued repairs or a new unit is best for your family’s financial plan.
Your HVAC contractor easily determines the best AC unit and style for your home and lifestyle.
2.) Low Energy Efficiency
If your energy bills seem unusually high during the warmer months, the culprit is probably an inefficient air conditioner. This is another sign you may want to replace your air conditioner.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings measure the energy efficiency of an air conditioner. The higher the SEER rating, the less energy your air conditioner uses to cool your home. AC units on the market have at least a 13 SEER. However, if you have an older air conditioner in your home, the SEER rating is potentially 6 or less.
New ENERGY STAR air conditioners are beneficial to your wallet, as well as better for the environment. Whether you upgrade to save on energy costs, or to improve your environmental impact, a new AC unit lowers your monthly energy bill.
3.) Frequent Air Conditioner Repairs
Frequent cooling system repairs and service calls are signs that you need a new air conditioner. They potentially cost more in the end than a new system. A new air conditioning system saves you money on pricey repairs, as well as energy bills, if you install a more efficient system.
A good HVAC system technician provides a full picture of your current air conditioner costs as well as the costs associated with a new system. You might be surprised how much you save with a new air conditioner versus patching up your old one.
4.) High Humidity
Air conditioners remove humidity from the air as part of the cooling process. If your home’s air feels uncomfortable, the excess humidity is often to blame.
When the air conditioner cycles but does not seem to remove your home’s humidity, it is time for a check. A trained heating and cooling technician tests the humidity in your home and diagnoses any problems with your air conditioner.
Unsure If You Need a New Air Conditioner? Get a Free Estimate from A-1 Mechanical
If your home exhibits any signs you need to replace your air conditioner, give A-1 Mechanical a call! Our expert technicians believe your comfort is a priority. We provide maintenance, repairs, and new installations all summer long. Contact us today to keep your home and family cool all summer!