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Does your AC unit keep breaking down? Are you wondering if the repair cost is worth it or you should completely replace the whole unit? If you are a homeowner, one of the most challenging choices you will make is deciding when to get new AC units.
New AC units can be quite pricey, and it’s a significant investment to make for any homeowner. However, it’s also essential to understand the costs of operating an old and inefficient unit. Below are seven crucial tell-tale signs that your home needs a new AC unit:
1. Your AC Unit Is Too Old
With proper maintenance, your AC unit can serve your home for around 20 years. If your system is over 20 years old, you should think about replacing it. If something in an old AC unit breaks down, repair costs in the long-run could exceed the cost of replacing the whole unit.
Replacing an old and worn-out AC unit makes more sense, especially with today’s modern technology advancements and improvements in efficiency seen with current AC units.
2. Moisture Build-up in Your Home and Leaks
Your AC will create humidity and moisture as it works to cool down your home; however, it should be able to handle all the moisture without leaking. If you feel your home is too damp or there is a leak around the unit, it might be time to consider getting a new AC unit.
A leaking AC unit is not only a health hazard. It also causes the system to underperform. Moisture in your indoor air could lead to the growth of mold and mildew in your house.
Leaks in your home could be due to a clogged AC drain line. Your AC should always have a clean AC drain line to work efficiently.
3. You’re Paying High Electric Bills
If you notice higher-than-usual electricity bills resulting from running your Air Conditioner unit, then it might be time to replace it. Loss of efficiency leads to high energy bills. This is because your AC will be working twice as hard to cool down your house.
Below are the reasons why your air conditioning unit might be causing you to pay high electricity bills:
Dirty and Clogged Air Filters
The air filters in your AC keep your indoor air clean. If not replaced or cleaned regularly, they may accumulate dirt, debris, and other contaminants found in your indoor air. This could lead to clogging, which restricts airflow through your unit’s duct.
Restricted airflow leads to inefficiencies and overheating of the compressor and motors, increasing the electricity bill.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Scheduling regular maintenance with your HVAContractor is the best way to prevent your unit’s possible future breakdowns and keep it functioning at peak efficiency. Your technician can diagnose the condition of the system’s components and advice on the best course of action to take to improve performance. They will also advise if you should repair the unit or replace it.
Failing Components of the Unit
If the capacitors, motors, compressors, and other components of your units are failing, they could lead to high electricity bills. A unit operating on failing parts is less efficient, resulting in expensive repairs in the future.
4. Your AC Unit Is Inefficient
If there is a limited airflow or lack of cool air in your home even after turning on the unit, it could signify that the system is inefficient. While there are many causes of inefficiency in your AC system, you should consider a replacement if this is a recurring problem.
5. Your AC Is Producing Unusual Sounds
Unusual AC unit noises are quite annoying. While sometimes it’s common for your unit to produce specific noises, ensure you contact your technician immediately you notice a new noise coming from your AC.
Different sounds have different causes and could mean different problems in your AC unit. Below are some common AC noises and what they imply:
Screeching Sound
This should be a very alarming sound. It may sound like metals scraping against each other. The sound may last up to 15 seconds after turning on the AC, which might be an indication of too much pressure exerted on the compressor or a worn-out fan motor that needs replacing.
A Squealing Sound
This sound indicates a problem with the AC system’s fan belt. There could be a misalignment of the belt, or it could be worn out and needed for replacement.
A Clicking Sound
Any loud clicking sound coming from your unit is an indication of a severe underlying problem. If you hear a clicking sound coming from your AC, you might be having electrical trouble coming from the capacitor, thermostat, or compressor. Call your technician immediately.
Clanging, Banging, or Knocking Sound
These sounds are often experienced on outdoor AC units, and they could indicate loose fan blades or an object obstructing the fan. If you hear a banging sound, turn your system off and call a technician immediately to avoid damaging other unit components.
6. Foul-Smelling Air Coming From Your AC
Your unit should be circulating clean air into your house. However, if you notice that it is producing foul-smelling air, it might indicate an underlying problem. A burning or smoky smell coming from the system may be a sign of a severe issue that requires immediate professional attention.
7. Your System Requires Expensive Repairs
If your AC unit breaks down and you face expensive repairs, ensure you weigh the pros and cons of going through with the repair against replacing the whole unit. If the cost of repairing your AC unit could cover a larger percentage of getting a new unit, it’s wiser to opt for a replacement. Replacing the unit will also prevent future breakdowns that could potentially cost you more money.
Now You Know When It’s Time to Buy New AC Units
Even with proper maintenance, your AC unit can’t last forever. A time will come when you will need to replace it, especially if it keeps breaking down or is no longer as effective as it should be due to old age. While it can be challenging to know when to buy new AC units, ensure you contact your technician for advice before making a final decision.
If you like the above seven tips, check out our other posts for more great tips.
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