Is it Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner?
As our weather climbs into the triple digits, we’re anticipating those peak summer temperatures. As a consequence, air conditioning works harder, and if it is already close to its final days, this might be a good time to plan on replacing it. Because replacing an air conditioner before it breaks gives you the convenience of deciding what kind of unit you want, if you plan on replacing the old ductwork, and researching into sales and rebates offered by various companies.
In addition, the fiscal savings in monthly costs to run it can help pay for a replacement. Here are some factors to take into consideration as you assess your unit to determine if it’s time to replace it:
The electric bill
When the homeowner’s electric bill has continued to increase without the addition of other appliances or fixtures in the house, the most likely culprit is an aging HVAC. An inefficient HVAC will require more energy to run, and an HVAC costs the consumer more than any other appliance in the home. Replacing the unit could drop the energy bill down by 25-30% or even more depending on the unit. That amount can help offset the price of replacement substantially.
Age of the unit
Most units are meant to last approximately ten to fifteen years. Finding the age of the unit can be as simple as checking the owner’s manual that should be included with the house. The home should have also had a recent home inspection that would offer those details as well. If the unit is nearing the ten-year mark, it’s time to research new ones.
Frequent repairs
The homeowner who has the HVAC service and repair company repair on their speed dial has a problem. While it is a good practice to have the name and number of a good quality professional easily at hand, for a Spring and fall tune-up, it’s not typical to need them frequently. It may be time to ask what they would suggest in a new unit if the old one is continually breaking down. The amount spent on repairs could also be used to offset the cost of a new unit.
Cooling problems
Another indicator that the unit may be weakening is if the temperature inside does not seem to be dropping even when the unit is continuously running. While a ceiling fan may help, a good HVAC unit won’t cool a house unevenly or not at all. Noisy Lastly, thumping, whirring or other odd noises coming from the unit are a concern that the unit is nearing its end. Newer units are quieter, more efficient and you may not even hear it running.
Said one recent customer, “The old unit looked like a rusty old scow and sounded like a jet taking off whenever it was on, which was all the time in the summer. After I got the new unit, I saw my electric bill drop by half, the unit is quiet, and it’s always cool now,” she says of her new HVAC.
If you have concerns about your HVAC unit such as the ones listed above, or a matter that wasn’t covered, it’s time to talk to a professional about new-unit options. Sometimes, an HVAC has a lot of life left in it and needs a simple adjustment or repair. But without talking to a pro, there is no way to know for sure. If you want to consult with an expert, give us a call! We’d be happy to help.
Modern Air Conditioning & Heating is a Boulder City-based HVAC company offering 15 years of experience in residential and commercial HVAC services for all makes and models. You can also call us directly at (702) 919-4365.
