Air conditioners, or popularly known as AC, can make your life comfortable once temperatures climb.
Unfortunately, like other appliances, your AC doesn’t last forever, regardless of how well you maintain it.
While it depends on your AC unit, how often you use it, and the climate in your area, a regularly serviced unit lasts longer than the one that isn’t. Even well-maintained air conditioners of a particular age could run into problems.
In this case, hiring companies to do air conditioning services can be of great help.
However, if the issues are too expensive and impossible to repair, you might want to look for a replacement.
Below are some of the telltale signs it’s time for a new air conditioner:
1. Your AC Unit Requires Frequent Repairs
In a perfect world, your AC unit must be serviced once a year to ensure it stays in tip-top condition. Occasionally, you may require an extra repair or service.
But, if your AC unit needs repairing and mending several times each year, you might need to call it quits on your unit and replace it with a more efficient and economical option.
Typically, you can go for a part replacement or major repair. But, if serious repairs happen later, they serve as a warning sign for future problems.
If your unit requires complex repairs after the expiration of the warranty, it’s a sign you should get another air conditioner as a replacement to your old unit rather than pouring money into an old one.
2. Your Energy Bills Keep Increasing
Although your AC unit appears to be working normally, one of the signs that there’s a problem can be found on energy bills.
If your monthly electric bill continues to increase, you might want to do an energy audit to help you determine if your AC is the culprit.
If your AC is the problem, it’s time to look for a new unit and choose the most energy-efficient one for you to enjoy savings from in the long run.
Although most energy-efficient AC units are quite expensive, they’re worth your investment.
3. Your AC Is Old
Generally, you can expect a properly maintained AC to last for at least a decade. But, if your unit requires expensive repairs and your AC is more than a decade old, it only makes sense to purchase a new one.
Besides, the newest models are equipped with advanced technology and other helpful energy-saving features.
4. Leaks And Moisture Buildups
It isn’t uncommon to see moisture buildup on various parts of an air conditioner. But, if you notice a moisture buildup on the external or internal parts of your unit, you would want to take note of it. This is especially true if there are leaks as well.
Oftentimes, it’s a quick fix, particularly in the case of refrigerant leaks. But it may also be a sign of serious damage that can cause your unit to underperform over time.
So, when it happens, make sure to hire an expert to help you determine whether to replace or repair your AC.
5. Inconsistent Temperatures
Fluctuating temperatures is one of the telltale signs your AC needs a new replacement. Typically, your AC must run cool within several minutes of it turning on.
If that’s not the case, there might be a worn-down component that requires repairs or your unit might be aging.
If you’re getting such hot temperatures in your house, it might be a good time to replace your AC entirely to cut your utility costs.
6. Unusual Sounds
If you have an AC installed, you’ve become quickly familiar with its sounds like humming or low whirring. Once your unit diverges from a normal range of sounds, it’s a major red flag.
If your AC is noisier than before, it’s a sign of aging. This is because some parts of your AC may have deteriorated or shifted over time, which may cause grinding or squeaking noises that catch your attention.
7. Strange Smells
Your AC must produce nothing but neutral-smelling and clean air. As long as you follow the recommended schedule to replace the air filters, you can be assured you won’t smell anything unusual coming from your AC.
However, if your unit starts to produce persistent and strange smells, it may mean there’s a problem with your AC. Make sure to watch for moldy and musty smells because it requires an immediate inspection.
Conclusion
If you detect any of the above signs, it’s time to decide whether or not to get a new AC unit.
If you’re confused and don’t want to make a wrong decision, call in a professional and get expert recommendations.
Some professionals can also suggest to you a brand or model that’s perfect for your needs and budget.
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