Whether you rent an apartment or own your home, hot weather is the great equalizer. Everyone worries about when it might be time to repair or replace the air conditioning system.
While nothing lasts forever, few home system breakdowns are more devastating than losing your air conditioning. If you suspect your AC is on the fritz, look for these signs it’s time for a replacement.
Give us a call at Select Home Warranty if you have any questions about air conditioning and HVAC home warranty coverage: 860-288-4791
When to replace your air conditioner?
On average, air conditioning units last 10-15 years while HVAC systems last 15-20 years. Your heating and cooling systems last longer when they are properly maintained, such as by cleaning the system’s filters and air ducts routinely.
When to replace your air conditioner depends on you begin to notice your cooling system is working less efficiently than before or when you notice your temperature is not properly adjusting. Be on the look out for the 7 troubling signs below and the possibility of a repair or replacement.
How often to replace your AC unit?
Air conditioning units can last a surprisingly long time, but they can also break unexpectedly. You can expect to replace an AC unit every 10-15 years unless you experience problems with the unit.
Be sure to keep up with maintenance and proper storage of the unit once the weather becomes cold. Storing your AC unit in a cool, dry and less-trafficked location of your home will allow you to re-install the unit come spring. Repairing AC units requires an expert technician, so always rely on expert advice before replacing your AC unit.
What are the 7 signs your air conditioner needs to be replaced?
1. You’re not getting cold air.
Maybe it’s obvious, but when you’re not getting any cool air, there’s probably something wrong with your AC. From low Freon levels to a broken compressor, any number of issues could be a factor. Call in a professional, or if you have a home warranty with Select, make a claim. There’s no need to wait to beat the heat. If the repair is extensive, you may be looking at a replacement instead.
2. The air flow isn’t all that great.
So maybe you’re getting cool air throughout your home, but you’ve noticed that your AC isn’t pushing air out the way it used to. This could mean any number of things, including issues with your AC’s compressor or blocked/damaged vents. While it’s possible to have a professional manage these repairs, they can be quite expensive depending on your system’s age and the extent of the issue. When the costs get too high, you might want to consider the cost for a new unit.
3. You’ve found moisture and leakage around the unit.
While condensation around an air conditioner is normal, excessive leakage can represent a much larger problem. If you have an issue with a refrigerant leak or notice large pools of water around your AC unit, you may have a serious issue that need to be addressed right away. Leaking coolant can pose a health risk to you and your family, and excessive water leakage can damage floors or furniture and may even lead to mold growth. Call in an expert ASAP!
4. You’re hearing unusual sounds you haven’t heard before.
Did you hear a loud grinding sound coming from your AC? How about rattling, banging, squealing, and other noises that just don’t seem right? Turn off your AC system and get an expert out to look at it as soon as you can. These noises often reflect a serious issue – such as a belt slipping out of place or broken motor bearings – that could lead to a costlier repair or need for replacement if not addressed immediately.
5. Some zones aren’t cooled (aka the thermostat isn’t working).
Occasionally, issues with your AC system aren’t about the main cooling unit, but your thermostat. A broken thermostat may prevent the system from effectively cooling any given area in your home or apartment. If the other rooms feel fine and the issue is contained to a single zone, it may be worth having a professional check your thermostats to see if they’re culprit. If so, you might be lucky enough to have to replace a thermostat or two instead of replacing the whole system.
6. You’ve had it for more than 10-15 years.
The average AC system lasts about 10 to 15 years. If your system is older than that, congratulations! You got a great return on your investment. However, with newer models focusing on energy efficiency, you may save money in the long run through an upgrade. When your older system breaks down, consider it an opportunity to upgrade to a modern setup.
7. Your AC system needs frequent repairs.
Eventually, if you find yourself paying to have the same system repaired repeatedly, it may be time to throw in the towel. Sooner or later, it’ll be more cost effective to simply replace it. After all, repairs not covered under a home warranty can be incredibly costly.
While AC system breakdowns often leave homeowners and renters burning with rage, when you’re covered under a home warranty, these issues don’t have to break the bank. In fact, you may not require replacement at all! Start with your FREE quote and see which coverage plan works best for your needs. Give us a call today: 860-288-4791
