How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced

August 29, 2016

Cool air is arriving quickly and your air conditioner has survived another season of heat. But just because it made it through this summer doesn’t mean it will keep the cold air coming the next time temperatures rise. Here are some signals that your air conditioner may be on its last summer.

Not cooling well

Your AC system is designed to keep you cool and comfortable on the warmest days, so if you’re A/C is not keeping you cool (and you’re uncomfortable) there’s probably a problem. There are many situations where your system might quit cooling – a refrigerant leak, compressor failure, or a wrongly calibrated thermostat. Once you’ve determined the problem, it may be ideal to just let go of your little engine that could, and move on to a newer, more energy-efficient air conditioner – hopefully one that keeps your home cool.

More Frequent Repairs

If you’re requiring AC repairs every year, it may be time to give it up and invest in a new one. Frequent air conditioning repairs are a good indicator that your AC is starting to go out and you don’t want to be left in the middle of the dog days of summer with a blistering hot home.

Paying More in Energy Bills

If you see a hike in your energy bills that could be a signal that something is not right. If your AC is working excessive overtime, it could end up causing you to work overtime to afford it, and it might be a better option for you to purchase a more energy-efficient air conditioner that can easily decrease your peak season utility payments.

Less Air Flow

If your air isn’t flowing as strong as it used to be, it could be a sign that your AC is on its last leg. Take a look at your home’s air filters to confirm they are not in need of replacing and, if not, call an expert to help find the problem.

Constantly Starting Up

If your system is constantly running, more importantly if it’s not blowing much cool air, then you possibly have a problem. It could be a problem that’s easy to rectify with a routine maintenance, but it could also be a sign that your AC has to work more to keep you cool and comfy and that means wasted energy and wasted money.

Strange Noise

If your air conditioning system starts creating strange noises, there could be a problem. Higher pitched noises may mean a problem with one of the motors. Rattling noises may mean a part got loose. Don’t risk it. Call a professional to take a look and decide if it’s a problem worth repairing or if it will always be an ongoing issue.

Signs of Aging

As it is with everything (and everyone), the older something gets, the weaker it usually gets. Is your air conditioner not cooling as efficiently as it did a few years ago? Are some rooms warmer or cooler than others? Is it taking a larger amount of time to cool your home? These can be common signs of an aging AC. If your air conditioner is floundering and is nearing or over 10 years in age, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning and 330-236-4793 for a free in-home estimate and find out about our current discounts on energy-efficient systems.