01Jul

Is It Time For An Upgrade?

Sometimes we neglect the signs showing us that our AC unit is in need of repair or replacement. While an out-of-sight, out-of-mind mentality can make us feel better for the moment, it can be detrimental not only to our family’s comfort, but to finances as well. An inefficient air conditioning system drains our pocket books every month and gets worse gradually so it’s easy to overlook the extra expense.

Several signals can help you determine if it’s time for an upgrade. Here are eight signs that your AC unit is in need of a repair or replacement.

8 – Humidity

One of the purposes of an air conditioning system is to control humidity for improved comfort and cleanliness (too much humidity creates an ideal environment for mold & mildew growth in your home). If you find that your home is still quite humid when your system is switched on, there may be damage throughout the system that warrants a full replacement.

7 – Frequent Repairs

All air conditioners need repair at some point. So how do you know if your air conditioner has exceeded its useful life? Units that need frequent repairs typically need to be replaced. It’s a good idea to get a new air conditioner if you’re spending more money on repairs than a new system would cost.

6 – Dust

Leaky ducts can pull particles and air from attics, crawl spaces and basements and distribute them throughout your house. Excessive dust could be a sign of an aging unit or even a malfunctioning system.

5 – Low Energy Scores

You can check your energy score using the Home Energy Yardstick provided by Energy Star. If your score is below five, your energy use at home is above average and you’re probably paying more than you need to on energy bills.

4 – You Don’t Have A Programmable Thermostat

Because you’re busy like the rest of the world, installing a unit with a programmable thermostat and state-of-the-art technology will help you save on energy costs. In other words, you shouldn’t be paying for the air that you aren’t using.

3 – Hot or Cold Spots

You may have adjusted to living in a home that has hot and cold spots, but these are signals that you should consider investing in a new air conditioner. Rooms that are not properly cooled are probably connected to ducts that are clogged or otherwise damaged.

2 – Noise

While this may be an obvious sign of deterioration, most people disregard noise as just part of the deal. Noise problems point to issues in the ducts that comprise your air conditioning system. Ducts that are too small to be used with the system that you have installed in your home could cause vibrations that lead to a high level of noise. Problems with the coils in your system could also be the source of the issue.

1 – Age

Your air conditioner should be replaced if it’s 10-12 years old. Even if your cooling system is working as intended, the air conditioners that are manufactured today are significantly more efficient than older models. You could reduce your cooling bills significantly by investing in a new system that is Energy Star certified.