Air-conditioning systems are one of those appliances you rarely think about until something goes wrong if you’re caught with a broken or malfunctioning air conditioner in the middle of summer when your area when the technicians are at their busiest, you could face some miserable days of heat at home. Fortunately, there are some telltale signs homeowners can usually identify before an AC system breaks down completely. Are you seeing any of the following? Better get your air conditioner replaced sooner than later.
1. Your AC is more than 10 years old – Your AC may need replacing
Air conditioners wear out just like any other household appliance. A well-maintained AC system will last 10 to 15 years or more, according to the National Association of Home Builders. However, systems that have not been maintained over their lifespan will not last the full 10 years. Manufacturers of HVAC equipment recommend having a Service done by a professional, licensed, and qualified HVAC company to keep your system in good working order. The technician can inspect the equipment components, identify and fix any issues, and clean the indoor and outdoor coils so you can have a properly operating system.
2. Your energy bills are rising
Before you blame global warming for your rising energy costs, consider whether your high energy bills could be the result of faulty, failing or inefficient equipment. An air conditioning system that is working inefficiently will run more frequently, using up more electricity while not properly cooling your nome.
Many electric companies in your area will provide a comparison chart on how your bill has changed month over month and year over year. They also often provide an average temperature for each day of the month, information that can help you identify whether higher utility costs are associated with outdoor temperature or something else.
Newer cooling systems will also tend to be more energy-efficient than older models. Investing in an energy-efficient system could provide you with savings in the long run.
3.Your system uses ozone-depleting refrigerant (R22)
In January 2020, the ozone-depleting refrigerant R22 will no longer be manufactured. Used as a refrigerant for any air conditioning equipment beginning with the first models produced in the 1950s, R22 has been found by researchers to be contributing to the thinning of the earth’s ozone.
Manufacturers and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recommend homeowners have an HVAC technician inspect their system to determine what kind of refrigerant it uses. More recently produced models use ozone-friendly refrigerants, such as 410A.
“If their system uses ozone-depleting refrigerant and it needs any repairs, it doesn’t make sense to invest any money in it,” Manufacturers and the EPA suggest a replacement to better protect our environment.
4. Repeat breakdowns – Your AC may need replacing
Whether your Air Conditioning system has reached the end of its lifespan or not, having multiple serious repairs done every year or more in a row could indicate it is near the end of its life. Just remember that systems last only as long as they’re Serviced by a Qualified and well Trained Company, and also remember not all some systems are made to last as long as others simply because they are possibly builder style equipment. If you’ve already fixed one issue and more are popping up, it might be best to cut your losses and replace your entire system with one that has a better warranty and is more efficient.
Older air conditioners will also have more aesthetic issues. Rust is a major problem, along with being noisier than newer models, People with air conditioners that are near windows or backyard patios could benefit from the newer and quieter AC units that are built today.