It may seem a bit early to be thinking about your air conditioner, but summer and warmer temperatures are just around the corner. Spring is the time to schedule routine maintenance to ensure your air conditioner is peak condition before summer starts heating things up.
If you have an older or inefficient unit, Spring is also the time to think about replacement, otherwise you will find yourself pretty uncomfortable once summer vacation rolls around.
One of the hardest things about being a homeowner is deciding when it’s time to replace your home’s air conditioning unit. A brand new unit is a huge investment. However, the cost of recurring repairs and inefficient operation could end up costing you more in the long run.
Is It Time To Replace Your Air Conditioner?
If you are experiencing any of the following signs, you should consider replacing your current air conditioner.
Sign #1: Your Air Conditioner is more than 10 years old.
According to Consumer Reports and the National Association of Home Builders, the average air conditioning unit can be expected to last about 10-15 years. Regular professional maintenance will help lengthen the life of your air conditioner. However, if your unit has reached double digits and is need of expensive repairs, it is probably time to retire it.
Sign #2: Your Air Conditioner is Inefficient
With recent advancements in energy efficiency, a new AC unit could save a significant amount on your monthly energy bill. A modern system may use as little as 1,710 watts of electricity per hour. That is an amazing 250-percent increase in operating efficiency over the typical air conditioner of twenty years ago.
If your old air unit has a low SEER rating, it could be a drain on your budget. All newly manufactured AC units are required to have a SEER rating of at least 13. If your current air conditioner has SEER rating lower than 13, you can save big on annual energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more energy efficient model.
Sign #3: Your Air Conditioner Breaks Down Frequently
Even small, inexpensive repairs add up over time. Also, frequent breakdowns and repairs are inconvenient, often leaving you and your family sweltering while waiting for the repair technician. If you find yourself holding your breath waiting for the next system failure, save yourself the headache and replace your old unit. It will save your sanity and your bank account.
Sign #4: Your Air Conditioner uses R22 Freon
To conserve energy use and lower harmful impact on the environment, the federal government is phasing out use of Freon. This once common refrigerant is gradually being replaced by R-410A, a refrigerant that does not contribute to ozone layer depletion.
If you’re having issues with your AC, and your Freon needs to be replaced, you should consider replacing your unit.
Sign #5: Your Air Conditioner is Not Doing Its Job
You should expect your air conditioner to keep you and your family cool. That is its job. You should consider replacing your AC unit if it isn’t keeping your home comfortably cool.
If you have questions about whether your AC needs to be replaced, contact your local HVAC professionals. They will help you choose the right model for you.