13 SIGNS YOUR AIR CONDITIONER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED & WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN UPGRADING YOUR AC SYSTEM
September 25, 2023
When the warm summer months arrive, we all rely on air conditioning in Columbus, OH, to stay cool and comfortable. But when your AC unit isn’t running as efficiently as it once did, you may see a spike in your energy bill—and that’s enough to make anyone uncomfortable!
Keep reading to learn common signs your air conditioner needs to be replaced or repaired, along with factors to consider when buying a new AC.
13 SIGNS YOUR AIR CONDITIONER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED
Investing in a new air conditioning system is a tough decision, and homeowners often ignore the signs that it’s time. However, upgrading your AC system usually saves you money in the end by preventing major repair costs to your current system.
Consider the following signs that it’s time to upgrade your air conditioning system, so you don’t get stuck with expensive repairs while waiting for help in a sweltering home.
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RISING ENERGY BILLS
If you notice your utility bills growing, it could be time to replace your AC unit. The change may be gradual, or you might see a sudden spike. Either way, you don’t want to delay talking to a professional about the cause.
Call us to ask about your options today! 614-405-7819
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WEAK AIRFLOW
Insufficient airflow can mean different things. You may just need proper maintenance from a professional to ensure your refrigerant level is correct, air filters are clean, and components are operating correctly. But it can also mean your unit needs to be replaced.
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AIR CONDITIONER CONSTANTLY RUNNING
An AC unit that's working harder than usual to cool your home isn’t just a sign it might need to be repaired or replaced—it also means your energy bill is likely climbing.
The cause could be as simple as needing to replace your air filter. Unfortunately, it can also be a sign of costly issues, whereas a new, more efficient system would save money in the long run.
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UNUSUAL AIR CONDITIONER NOISES
It’s common for air conditioning units to start making strange noises when they’re experiencing serious problems. Don’t ever ignore strange sounds coming from your AC system. Different noises can mean different things—but if you hear squealing, grinding, thumps, or clanks from your air conditioner—call a professional right away.
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AC BLOWS SMELLY AIR
Hearing isn’t the only sense that can help you determine if there’s something wrong with your air conditioning unit. Your sense of smell can also come in handy. You may notice a chemical smell that could indicate a refrigerant leak, or a burning smell, which could be an electrical short or overheating component.
Any smell coming from your AC unit is reason for concern and could indicate it’s time for a new unit.
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AC IS BLOWING WARM AIR
If your AC is set to your usual cooling temperature and is blowing warm air, the issue could be several different things. It’s best to have your HVAC service come and take a look, as there are many potential reasons you might need a new AC system.
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SLOW PERFORMANCE
What should you do if your AC is still functioning, but taking a very long time to cool your home? Slow performance may signal that your system is slowly shutting down. Component failures are expensive, and repairs often yield fewer benefits than simply installing a new system. In these cases, replacement might be the best option.
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FROZEN COILS
Frozen coils can be a sign of multiple AC problems. Sometimes, people make the mistake of letting the unit continue to run (hoping it will improve), but it’s essential to turn the AC off, let the ice melt, and have a professional inspect the unit as soon as possible to address the reason for the issue. It could be as simple as a dirty air filter, or as serious as a failing crucial component.
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OVERHEATING PROBLEMS
You may notice a smell like something is hot or see other signs that your AC components are overheating. You don’t want to risk keeping it running without having a technician take a look. It’s possible there’s a single component that needs repair, or the problem could be serious enough to warrant a new system.
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UNEVEN TEMPERATURES
Often, when an AC system keeps some areas of the house cooler than others, it involves uneven airflow from bad ductwork. However, that’s not the only possible cause. When speaking with your AC technicians, be sure to discuss whether you need a system better suited to your home size.
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HUMIDITY ISSUES
Humidity can be a sign that moisture isn’t evaporating properly or other issues are happening with your AC. Left unchecked, humidity can lead to dangerous mold problems that are difficult to eliminate, and the price for removal can get very expensive.
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INADEQUATE AIRFLOW
Maybe the air in your home is cool, but the airflow isn’t as strong as it once was. This is another common air conditioning problem that might mean you need a new unit. Contacting an AC technician can help you determine the true issue.
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AGING AC UNIT
Age is an important element when considering air conditioning repair and replacement. Even with proper AC maintenance, most units simply cannot last past a certain age. Here are a few common questions regarding older units:
WHAT IS THE LIFE EXPECTANCY OF AN AIR CONDITIONER?
If your air conditioning system is approaching 10 years old or has already passed this age, it’s time for a professional inspection.
SHOULD I REPLACE MY 20-YEAR-OLD AIR CONDITIONER?
It is rare for AC units to last more than 15 years, but if a system has been meticulously maintained over the years, some people are fortunate to have their systems last even longer.
Along with the other signs mentioned here that it’s time to upgrade your air conditioner, consider whether your utility bills are rising. Don’t fall into the trap of paying more for frequent repairs when those funds could be invested more efficiently in a new system.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN UPGRADING YOUR AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
A new AC system is a big decision, and choosing the right air conditioner will have a positive impact on your comfort for many years to come. You want to make the right choice. Consider the following when investing in your new AC:
CHOOSING THE RIGHT SIZE AC UNIT
Air conditioning units are rated based on the square footage they are designed to cool. Buying an AC that is too large for a home can be just as problematic as one that is too small. Definitely consult a trustworthy HVAC professional in Columbus to make the right decision.
Additionally, the placement of your AC can make a difference in how well it works, and sometimes the old unit isn’t in the most optimal placement for your home. Installation may include a beneficial relocation plan to give you the best value for years to follow.
UPGRADING YOUR THERMOSTAT
To get the full benefit of your highly efficient new AC system, consider upgrading your thermostat. Today’s digital, programmable thermostats contribute to energy savings as well.
Modern thermostats are more accurate and easier to read. They can be tuned to automatically give you the temperature you want when you want it.
SEASONAL TIMING
Investing in a new AC system is a big decision, and it’s a decision worth planning for. You want to get your new air conditioner installed and running before the summer heat, rather than sacrificing the comfort of cool air while getting it installed on a hot day.
Start doing your research early, giving yourself time to ask questions and talk to professionals about what they recommend. This way, you get the features that matter and the convenience of a scheduled appointment with much less hassle.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Newer AC systems are more efficient than older models, and one way to be sure you’re investing in an energy-efficient air conditioner is to look for one that is ENERGY STAR qualified, using less energy without sacrificing quality.
There are many different energy-efficient features an AC can utilize, including:
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Inverters that adjust the compressor’s speed based on cooling needs
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Smart thermostats you can control from anywhere using an app
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Dual-stage ACs that can run at different capacities
HOW OFTEN DOES AN AC SYSTEM NEED TO BE REPLACED?
An air conditioner is designed to last an average of ten years. This is just an estimate, as the actual lifespan of an AC unit depends heavily on the quality of care given. A poorly-maintained AC might not even last that long, and well-maintained units are known to last 10 years or more, though they are unlikely to last much longer.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU NEED A REPLACEMENT OR UPGRADE VS. JUST A REPAIR?
If your AC is less than 10 years old and well-maintained, most common issues can be solved with low-cost repairs and replacement parts. When larger components begin to fail, the cost becomes much more expensive, and it makes more sense at that point to replace the unit.
With a new AC unit, you’ll likely start saving money right away. Newer units are consistently becoming more efficient, using less energy than systems from 10–20 years ago.
Not sure whether you need a repair or replacement? Schedule a visit with us right away.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST TO BUY A NEW AC?
The actual cost for a new AC system varies depending on numerous factors. The size of the unit is one factor. For example, larger homes require systems with a higher cooling capacity than smaller homes.
More efficient AC units may cost less to operate but come with a bigger price tag—and the latest technology, such as smart thermostats you can control with an app. These air conditioning features are directly connected to the price tag, but well worth the investment.
We go out of our way to make this easy, with special financing options.
OUR SERVICE GUARANTEE
To help make your decision easier, you can take comfort in our EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE GUARANTEE. If, for any reason, within one year of the date of the original invoice, you are dissatisfied with our work in your home, we’ll make every effort to remedy the issue, or remove your equipment (if applicable) and cheerfully refund 100% of your money.
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR AC UPGRADE
Let our team help your family enjoy the benefits of a new air conditioning installation in Columbus, Ohio. We offer free in-home consultations so you can feel completely comfortable using our AC repair and replacement services.
Visit our website for more information about our services or find answers to more questions on our blog.
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