How Often Should You Replace Your Air Conditioning Unit?

Presidential Heating & Air Conditioning

Gaithersburg HVAC Contractors

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Considering an air conditioning replacement? An air conditioner’s job is to keep you cool during those hot, humid days. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for people to end up dealing with a broken down unit at the worst possible time because they either ignored regular maintenance or their unit got too old.

The last thing that you need to deal with is your air conditioning unit breaking down. Then you’ll have to live in sweaty discomfort while you wait for an air conditioning replacement. Walking into your home that’s as muggy as the weather outside will make it impossible to enjoy.

Air conditioners, like other appliances, won’t last forever. Knowing what signs to look for before it breaks down will help you stay ahead of the problem. That way you can get it replaced in time to handle the season change to summer. Plus, you can enjoy the sauna at the gym instead of at your home!

Signs You Should Consider an Air Conditioning Replacement

When you need to replace your air conditioning, there are certain signs that will point in that direction. Knowing what they are will save you from spending money on a repair, when what you really need is a replacement.

Have a full diagnostic check completed on your AC unit first. You can do this by checking your thermostat settings. Make sure that it’s turning on and off when it should be and not running continuously.

The next step should be handled by a trained professional, as it requires evaluating the electric system running the power on the AC. This could be very dangerous for you to do yourself. A professional can inspect the currents and voltages that the electrical components are using and verify that they are accurate. There could be bigger problems involved if these measurements come up lower than when the unit was installed.

Unusual Sounds

Is your AC making unusual sounds that you’ve never noticed before? Chattering, squeaking, and grinding are not normal sounds that an AC should be making. It’s generally a sign that the unit is aging.

Other sounds like rattling and banging could mean there’s a serious issue with your AC. For instance, you may have broken motor bearings or a belt might have slipped out of place. These types of issues usually lead to more expensive repairs, if not a full replacement.

Your AC’s noise level should be barely noticeable. If your AC unit is letting you know it’s there, the time to get a new one is quickly approaching.

Frequent Repairs Are Needed

If the AC repair professional is now on your speed dial, it’s time to seriously start considering having the AC replaced. Those service repairs will add up quickly as they become more frequent. An air conditioning replacement is going to cost you more money up-front. But it’s money better spent toward a new, reliable, and most importantly, cool-air running unit.

Lack of Cool Air

A tell-tale sign that you have a problem with your AC is that it’s not blowing cool air. Call a professional immediately if you have this issue. The problem could be that there’s a broken compressor, low Freon levels, or a multitude of other issues.

It could also be due to clogs that exist in your ductwork or piping. This will restrict the airflow in your home. You can’t resolve a clog on your own, so don’t ignore this sign and call a professional as soon as possible.

Extensive repairs might lead you to consider looking at a replacement.

Unit Is More than 10 Years Old

AC units lifespans can vary because there are a lot of different factors influencing their life expectancies. The maintenance and care that is taken can affect how long the lifespan is extended or reduced. But with proper care, you can get 15 to 20 years out of an air conditioner on average.

If your unit is over 10 years old, then you’re probably getting close to its expiration date. It’s probably best to start planning for an air conditioning replacement after it reaches its 10-year mark, just to be ready.

Additionally, older units use old technology and don’t run as efficiently as newer units. You’ve probably started to notice this too on your recent utility bills.

While you haven’t changed how you’re using your AC, the bill just keeps going up. Your system simply isn’t running as efficiently anymore. A new, upgraded and energy-efficient AC unit will lower your utility bills.

Contact the Air Conditioning Professionals

Are you not completely sure if you need to repair or replace your AC unit? We know that it’s an expensive decision to make on your own. Consult our experts at Presidential Heating and Air on your AC needs. We’ll come out and check your HVAC system and find the solutions to your AC issues.