How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced
Cool air is right around the corner and your AC has survived another season of heat. But surviving this summer doesn’t mean it will keep cooling the next time the heat is upon you. Here are a few signs that your AC may be on its last legs.
Not cooling your home
Your air conditioner is designed to keep you cool and comfortable on the warmest days, so if you’re A/C is not keeping you cool (and you’re unable to get comfortable) there’s likely a problem. There are many situations where your system may quit cooling – compressor failure, a wrong calibrated thermostat, or a refrigerant leak. Once you’ve determined the situation, it may be better to just let go of your little engine that could, and move on to a newer, more energy-efficient air conditioning system – hopefully one that keeps your home cool.
More Frequent Repairs
If you’re calling for AC repairs every year, it may be time to give it up and purchase a new one. Frequent air conditioner repairs are a good sign that your AC is starting to go out and you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of soaring temperatures with a sweltering hot home.
Increase in Energy Bills
If you see a rise in your cooling bills that could be an indication that something is amiss. If your air conditioner is working too much overtime, it could result in you working overtime to afford it, and it might be a better option for you to invest in a more energy-efficient AC that can easily lessen your peak season energy payments.
Decrease in Air Flow
If your air isn’t blowing as forceful as it used to be, it could be a sign that your air conditioning system is on its way out. Inspect your home’s air filters to confirm they do not need replacing and, if not, call a professional to help find the problem.
Constantly Turning On
If your system is continuously running, particularly if it’s not supplying much cool air, then you probably have a problem. It may be a problem that’s easy to fix with a routine maintenance, but it could also be a signal that your AC has to work extra to cool your home and that ends up costing you wasted energy and wasted money.
Strange Noise
If your air conditioning system starts making unusual noises, there might be a problem. Higher pitched noises could mean an issue with one of the motors. Rattling noises could mean a part got loose. Don’t take any chances. Call an expert to inspect it and decide if it’s a problem worth repairing or if it is going to end up being an ongoing issue.
Signs of Aging
Just like everything (and everyone), the more something has aged, the weaker it eventually gets. Is your air conditioner not cooling as efficiently as it did a few years ago? Are specific rooms colder or hotter than others? Is it taking more time to get your home cool? These are all common signs of an aging AC. If your AC is having a hard time and is nearing or over 10 years in age, call Roland J. Down Service Experts and 518-417-2938 for a free in-home estimate and ask about our current promotions on energy-efficient systems.
