How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced
Cool air is arriving quickly and your air conditioning system has survived another cooling season. But surviving this summer doesn’t mean it will keep the cold air coming the next time temperatures soar. Here are common signs that your air conditioning system may be on its way out.
Not keeping your cool
Your air conditioning equipment is supposed to keep you cool and comfortable on the hottest days, so if your system is not keeping your family cool (and you’re not comfortable) there’s probably a problem. There are a lot of situations where your AC may quit cooling – compressor failure, a wrong calibrated thermostat, or a refrigerant leak. Once you know the issue, it may be ideal to just let go of your little engine that could, and move on to a newer, more energy-efficient AC – preferably one that keeps your family cool.
More Frequent Repairs
If you’re requiring air conditioner repairs every cooling season, it may be time to bite the bullet and purchase a new one. Frequent air conditioning repairs are a good sign that your equipment is starting to die and you don’t want to be left in the middle of soaring temperatures with a blistering hot home.
Increase in Energy Bills
If you see a jump in your AC bills that could be an indication that something is amiss. If your air conditioning system is working too much overtime, it could result in you working overtime to afford it, and it may be a better choice for you to invest in a more energy-efficient air conditioning system that can easily lower your peak season cooling payments.
Less Air Flow
If your air isn’t flowing as powerful as it used to be, it could be a signal that your air conditioner is on its way to breaking down. Check your home’s air filters to confirm they do not need replacing and, if not, call an expert to help determine the problem.
Constantly Starting Up
If your system is continuously running, especially if it’s not producing much cool air, then you possibly have a problem. It could be something that’s easy to fix with a seasonal tune-up, but it could also be an indicator that your air conditioner has to work extra to cool your home and that means wasted energy and wasted money.
Odd Noise
If your air conditioning system starts making strange noises, there may be a problem. Higher pitched noises might mean trouble with one of the motors. Rattling noises could indicate a part got loose. Don’t take any chances. Call a professional to examine it and figure out if it’s a problem worth repairing or if it will continue to be an ongoing issue.
Signs of Aging
Just like everything (and everyone), the more something has aged, the weaker it eventually gets. Is your system not cooling like it did a few years ago? Are some rooms colder or hotter than others? Is it taking longer to get your home cool? All of these are usual signals of an aging system. If your air conditioner is struggling and is approaching or over 10 years in age, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning and 925-364-5427 for a free in-home estimate and learn about our current rebates on energy-efficient air conditioners.
