How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced
Cool air is coming soon and your air conditioning system has survived another season of heat. But making it through this summer doesn’t guarantee it will keep the cold air coming the next time temperatures rise. Here are common signals that your AC may be on its last summer.
Not keeping your cool
Your air conditioner is meant to keep you cool and comfortable on the steamiest of days, so if you’re A/C is not keeping your home cool (and you’re uncomfortable) there’s likely a problem. There are many situations where your air conditioner may stop cooling – a refrigerant leak, compressor failure, or a wrongly calibrated thermostat. Depending on the situation, it may be better to just let go of your little engine that could, and invest in a newer, more energy-efficient air conditioning system – ideally one that keeps your home cool.
More Frequent Repairs
If you’re needing AC repairs every year, it may be time to bite the bullet and purchase a new one. Frequent air conditioner repairs are a good indicator that your air conditioning system is starting to breakdown and you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of the dog days of summer with a blistering hot home.
Rise in Energy Bills
If you see a hike in your HVAC bills that could be an indication that something is wrong. If your air conditioning system is working excessive overtime, it could end up causing you to work overtime to afford it, and it could be a better decision for you to purchase a more energy-efficient air conditioning system that can easily reduce your peak season utility payments.
Less Air Flow
If your air isn’t blowing as powerful as it used to be, it could be a signal that your air conditioning system is on its last leg. Check your home’s air filters to confirm they do not require replacing and, if not, call a professional to help find the problem.
Constantly Turning On
If your system is continuously running, especially if it’s not blowing much cool air, then you probably have a problem. It may be a problem that’s easy to fix with a seasonal tune-up, but it could also be a signal that your system has to work extra to keep your home cool and comfortable and that means wasted energy and wasted money.
Odd Noise
If your air conditioning system starts producing weird noises, there might be a problem. Higher pitched noises may mean trouble with one of the motors. Rattling noises might signal a part got loose. Don’t take any chances. Call an HVAC technician to examine it and figure out if it’s a problem worth repairing or if it is going to end up being an ongoing issue.
Signs of Aging
Similar to everything (and everyone), the more something ages, the weaker it ultimately gets. Is your AC not cooling as efficiently as it did five years ago? Are specific rooms warmer or cooler than others? Is it taking longer to get your home cool? These are all typical indicators of an aging AC. If your air conditioner is having a hard time and is getting close to or over 10 years in age, call Chief/Bauer Service Experts and 217-689-2469 for a complimentary in-home estimate and ask about our current discounts on energy-efficient air conditioners.
