One of the most important things to consider when evaluating whether or not your AC unit needs to be replaced is its age. An older unit can be prone to a variety of problems and issues, including:
- Strange sounds – Older units commonly make weird noises that indicate something has gone wrong with the system. These noises could include rattling, squealing, or clunking sounds. If your AC unit is making these unusual sounds, it may be time for a replacement.
- Leaks – If you notice any leaks around the unit itself, this is a clear indication that you need to have your AC unit inspected and potentially replaced. Leaks are often caused by issues in the coolant lines within the unit, which can be expensive to repair.
- Poor performance – If your AC unit isn’t cooling your home as effectively as it used to, this could be a sign that it needs to be replaced. Older units can lose their efficiency over time, which means they use more energy to run and don’t cool as well. If you’ve noticed your energy bills going up even though you haven’t changed your usage, it may be time for a new AC unit.
If your AC unit is over 15 years old and experiencing any of these problems, it’s probably time to start shopping for a replacement. A newer unit will be more efficient and better able to keep your home comfortable all summer long.
Deciding On A New Air Conditioner
Once you’ve decided that your old AC unit needs to be replaced, the next step is to select a new one. There are several things to consider when making this choice, including:
- Size – You should always choose an AC unit that is sized appropriately for your home. A unit that is too small will not be able to adequately cool your space, while a unit that is too large can waste energy and lead to short cycling. Your professional HVAC technician will be able to help you determine the right size for your home based on factors such as square footage and number of rooms.
- Efficiency level – When choosing an AC unit, it’s important to pay attention to its efficiency rating. This rating is measured by the SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Units with a higher SEER rating will be more efficient and use less energy to cool your home, which can help you save money on your utility bills over time.
- Additional features – Newer AC units offer a variety of additional features that can make them easier to use and more effective. Some of these features include smart controls, programmable timers, air purification systems, and more. When choosing an AC unit, it’s a good idea to consider whether or not these extra features are important to you and worth the added cost.
With so many options available when it comes to choosing a new AC unit, it’s important to work with a professional HVAC technician who can help you select the best option for your home. They will be able to take into account factors such as the size of your space, your budget, and your specific cooling needs.
Should You Consider Repair For Your AC Unit?
In some cases, repair might actually be the best option for you. If your unit is still relatively new and under warranty, it might make more sense to have it repaired than replaced. Additionally, if the problem with your unit is something that can be easily and affordably fixed, repair might also be the better choice.
Some common problems that can often be repaired include:
- Refrigerant leaks – A refrigerant leak is one of the most common issues that AC units experience. If your unit is low on refrigerant, it will not be able to properly cool your home. This problem can often be fixed by simply adding more refrigerant to the system.
- Clogged air filters – Another common problem that many AC units experience is clogged air filters. These filters help to clean the air in your home while also protecting the unit from debris and dirt, so keeping them clean is important. If you notice that your AC unit isn’t cooling as well as it used to, try replacing or cleaning the air filters first.
- Blown fuses – Another problem that can cause a unit to stop working efficiently is a blown fuse. Fuses are designed to protect the electrical system of your AC unit in case of an overheating situation, but over time they can become weak and blow out. Replacing a blown fuse is relatively inexpensive and simple for most homeowners to do on their own. This can often be enough to fix minor issues with your AC unit.
If your AC unit is having problems, it’s important to call a professional HVAC technician for help. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action, whether that is repair or replacement.
Conclusion
When it comes to deciding whether or not to replace your AC unit, there are several factors to consider. If your unit is old, inefficient, or broken beyond repair, then replacement is likely the best option. However, if your unit is still relatively new or the problem can be easily and affordably fixed, repair might be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision of whether to repair or replace your AC unit should be made by a professional HVAC technician.