How to Tell If You Need an A/C Replacement
Air Conditioning systems are the most common electrical appliance in the United States. As such, many people have had to deal with their units becoming faulty and not working properly over time. Maintenance and repair can help mitigate the frequency of these problems but sometimes it’s better to replace the system. Constant repairs cost money and in the end it may be a better investment to buy a new AC unit altogether. But then the big question becomes how do you know when it’s time to replace versus repair? We compiled a list of details to look for so you know when it’s time to start shopping around!
Your Unit Is Blowing Hot Air
First off is perhaps the most obvious sign that you need to replace your air conditioning system. If your unit is blowing warm air it is likely that either there is an issue with the condenser or perhaps more seriously a coolant leak. Coolant, or freon, is the chemical responsible for cooling the hot air that is pulled into the system while the condenser is what actually pulls the hot air in and out.
Whether it is the condenser or refrigerant that is the problem, the inability to cool makes your AC unit basically useless. Repairs for these issues can also be costly, so it’s better to have the professionals come out and help you decide if it would be cheaper in the long term to replace. AC Authority gives free quotes upon inspection so you can always have an idea of what the best solution is.
Moisture Is Building Up
This one can be a more subtle sign that is easy to miss. AC units, especially central cooling systems, are excellent at removing moisture from your home. This contributes to making the overall environment in your home much more comfortable! But if you begin to notice that the air is unnaturally humid despite your AC running, that could mean a few things are malfunctioning:
- The airflow is obstructed, either due to a dirty filter or clogged duct work.
- The condenser is malfunctioning.
- There is a coolant leak
- Water build-up in the system is causing issues
To truly know if this is a quick fix that can prolong the life of your system you would need to have an expert come out to inspect what’s causing the issue.
A Strange Smell Is Present
More obvious, you may notice strange smells inside your home and around the unit. Some examples of smells to keep an eye out for are:
- Moldy or musty smells
- Burning or electrical fire
These smells are a sure sign of a few problems, like dirty air filters or mold growth in either the drip pans or the evaporator coil. If there is a leak causing mold to grow not only is it a huge health hazard but is a sign of a larger problem.
Loud Noises
Another more obvious sign is if there are strange noises from the unit. Loud knocking or whirring, for example. While most loud noises are caused by clogging in the system and can be easily fixed by regular maintenance, if the system is more than a few decades old it may just be time to replace everything. AC Authority offers a unique solution when it comes to maintenance! Our 24/7 Maintenance plans make sure you are covered, no matter the time of day.
The System Needs Constant Repairs
Speaking of maintenance plans, this is a huge sign that it is time to get a new unit. If your system is breaking down on a monthly basis then you definitely need to look at shopping around. While regular maintenance is important and necessary, if you are spending an equivalent amount of money on maintenance as you would on making a down payment for a new system then skip the repairs and buy a new unit.
How To Choose A New AC Unit
If this article has pointed you towards purchasing a new air conditioning system then the next question is how do you begin shopping for one? This is a complicated question that could require an entirely different article to cover. However, AC Authority can help make your purchase an educated one by providing you with years of expertise and a comprehensive recommendation. We take into account your home’s size, the energy ratings of the unit and the floor plan that the system would need to be installed into.
We also offer payment plans for AC units with expert installation and affordable maintenance options!
Key Takeaways
Knowing when it’s time to get a new system will help you save money in the long run. Specifically, paying attention to whether your unit is blowing cool air, looking for excess moisture or strange noises as well as smells, and examining how often you have to get it repaired. AC Authority is hear to guide you through these decisions no matter what and make sure that you are saving money!
