Signs That the AC May Need Replacement
As spring winds down and into the summer months, many homeowners may be starting to check on their air conditioners, a wise move considering the air conditioner will be a constant companion throughout the heat of summer. While those who have relatively new units may be resting easy in the knowledge that their air conditioning isn’t likely to break down, those who have older units on their hands or those experiencing issues with it may want to check if their air conditioners are on the brink of retirement so that they can replace it before it breaks down in the summer heat too unbearable to go even a day without air conditioning.
It’s Old
An average air conditioning unit is expected to last around 10 to 20 years. For those with AC systems already within that life expectancy range, whether to get an AC replacement becomes an urgent concern, especially as households begin to gear up for the rising temperatures in the coming summer months. No one wants to be caught in a heat wave with a broken AC, making spring the ideal time to have an HVAC contractor check on that aging air conditioner and replace it if necessary.
Getting a new AC before the old one breaks down completely is extremely important because having a functioning air conditioner is essential during the hot summer months. Without it, a home can become unbearably uncomfortable and even unsafe in extreme temperatures. HVAC contractors also get busier in the summer, so it’s best to replace it beforehand.
Lack of Efficiency and High Cooling Costs
As air conditioners age, they can become less efficient and use more energy than when they were new. This can be attributed to age and normal wear and tear or worn-out parts, dirt buildup, or lack of maintenance, resulting in higher energy bills as the AC unit is no longer running efficiently.
In some cases, an air conditioner that is not old may still run inefficiently, possibly due to a malfunctioning component, also leading to higher energy bills. If homeowners notice their AC is running inefficiently from high utility bills, they should contact a professional for an inspection to determine if they need a replacement, a repair, or just maintenance so their AC and energy bills can return to normal. Homeowners may have to do a cost-benefit analysis of continuing to repair and maintain an old, inefficient AC unit versus installing a new air conditioning system.
Failure to Cool Spaces Sufficiently
There are several possible reasons why a home's air conditioning might not be cooling adequately or warm air is coming out of the vents. One possibility is that the AC system is too small for the size of the house. If an undersized unit is installed, it may be unable to keep up with the demand of cooling all rooms efficiently. Additionally, the thermostat may be malfunctioning or refrigerant levels may be low due to a leak.
Another possible cause could be airflow issues due to dirty filters or blocked ducts. This can prevent cool air from circulating through the house properly, resulting in uneven temperatures. Additionally, if the evaporator or condenser coils are dirty, the system may be unable to cool the air properly. Some of these issues may require replacing the AC, while some may only require repair or maintenance. However, ignoring these problems could result in higher energy bills and further damage to the system. So if homeowners notice their home is not getting cool enough, they should contact an HVAC professional to inspect the system.
About LenAire
LenAire is a locally owned and operated company serving Bossier City, LA, and the surrounding areas since 1987. They provide free second opinions, cutting-edge technology, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for air conditioner replacement and installation in Bossier City, LA.
