People are often under the impression their air conditioner will be ready once the hot weather hits. But overlooking AC maintenance can have stressful, even dangerous, consequences. And there will eventually be a time when the system has reached the end of its lifespan. That’s when you need AC replacement; recognizing these signs can help you know when to act and save money.
10 Signs You Need an AC Replacement ASAP
1. Your Air Conditioner Is Old
While maintenance will help your AC last longer, after 10 to 15 years, the system is likely going to wear out. At this stage, start shopping around for a new unit. It’s best not to put off replacement for too long. But age isn’t the only factor. There are various symptoms to consider as well.
2. Your AC Stops Cooling Your Home
If you’re keeping your thermostat at the same setting, or must continuously reset it, and that’s not doing the trick, your AC may be failing. The system should not be blowing warm air when the thermostat is in cooling mode. At the very least, this is a sign major repairs may be needed.
3. There’s Too Much Noise
The sounds your AC makes should be subtle and consistent. Grinding, squealing, or scraping can mean a belt is out of place, which can damage other components. These, and other sounds such as chattering, can mean a mechanical component is defective. Fans, motors, compressors, and other major systems can create noise if not working properly.
4. Less Air Is Flowing from the Vents
Restricted airflow can mean there’s a blockage in your AC piping or ductwork. It can also mean the compressor is failing. Limited airflow is a sure sign you need some type of repair. Contact an HVAC technician to inspect the system. In some cases, a tune-up might resolve the problem.
5. Your AC Has Needed Multiple Repairs Recently
The cost of parts and labor continues to increase. That means if you need a repair every couple of months, the expenses add up and AC replacement might be cheaper. Newer ACs are more efficient too, so there are many ways you can save.
6. Strange Odors When the AC Is On
Odors from an air conditioner unit typically signal a big problem. While a musty smell can mean mold is growing inside it, strong burning odors are a different story. This can mean there are burnt out wires and components deep within the system.
7. The Unit Is Leaking
There should be no moisture around an AC, even condensation (the system is designed to drain this). Aside from a blocked or frozen condensate line, there are more serious problems to consider. Water leakage can do significant damage and lead to mold. A refrigerant leak can expose you to poisonous substances.
8. Indoor Humidity Is Increasing
Air conditioners are designed to reduce indoor humidity. There’s always some in the air, even in drier climates. If your home is becoming stickier and more uncomfortable when the AC is running, the unit may need major repairs or replacement.
9. Higher Electric Bills
If you haven’t used more energy and the electric bill spikes, your AC may no longer be running efficiently. Broken thermostat switches, ductwork leaks, and mechanical issues can often be fixed. But if there are multiple issues or a serious problem such as a failing compressor, it’s time to consider AC replacement.
10. The Thermostat Doesn’t Work
The thermostat controls the AC and is in constant communication with it. It measures temperature and sends commands to tell the unit how much cold air to produce. If the unit only runs for short periods or won’t turn on, have the thermostat checked. Another possibility is that the system is unable to respond to commands due to a failed mechanical or electrical component.
Contact IRBIS
If any of these 10 signs are present, reach out to us immediately and we’ll send a team to investigate the problem. Our company is open 24/7. We can offer any type of repair when possible. But if your AC is old and fixing it is cost-prohibitive or impractical, our team provides high-quality AC replacement and installation services in the San Jose area. Book service online or call 669-266-5464 now.