Signs That Homeowners May Need Their AC Replaced Before Summer
It’s no secret that air conditioners get used the most in the summer. And that’s why it makes sense that most air conditioner breakdowns happen in summer. When the temperature is high, and the unit has to work overtime, it can expose critical vulnerabilities that the continuous running exacerbates. If the air conditioner has been well cared for, it could just mean a minor repair is needed.
But for many homeowners, summertime quickly becomes a sweltering nightmare as they wait for a busy HVAC company to become available for an AC replacement. Luckily, there’s no need to wait for an AC emergency in the middle of summer to replace an air conditioner. This post will share three signs indicating the unit should be replaced before summer.
The Air Conditioner is Old
One of the first things homeowners should determine when considering AC replacement is the age of the unit. Most air conditioners last somewhere between ten and twenty years on average. If the unit is approaching double-digits or in that range, it could be time to start looking out for other issues and consider replacing it.
Older units tend to make more noise than newer ones, which can signify issues to come. Likewise, if the frequency of repairs keeps increasing, consider a new AC unit. The last thing anyone wants to do is wait until the last minute when the AC finally breaks down in the middle of summer, becoming an emergency instead of an urgent matter.
The AC Unit Has Lost Efficiency
As AC units age, their energy efficiency tends to decrease, meaning they consume more energy than is necessary. This translates into higher energy bills, which can be quite a burden for homeowners. Additionally, the longer an AC unit runs, the more wear and tear it experiences, which can cause it to break down prematurely or malfunction.
However, lost energy efficiency and high utility bills may be due to something other than age. Neglected maintenance or a malfunctioning part can also cause the inefficiency of an AC unit. For example, clogged air filters can cause the system to work harder than necessary, increasing energy consumption. Similarly, issues like refrigerant leaks can cause the air conditioning to work harder than necessary, leading to higher energy bills.
If homeowners have a newer AC unit experiencing a decrease in efficiency, it could be an issue that requires repair and maintenance. However, an inefficient air conditioner may also indicate the need for a complete replacement. Get a professional technician to diagnose problems promptly and determine the best solution to ensure optimal efficiency and performance of an AC.
The House is No Longer Comfortable
One of the most obvious telltale signs that the AC system needs work is when the house is no longer comfortable because it doesn’t get cool enough or warm air comes from the vents. It doesn’t have to be the whole house, either. If certain rooms seem not to get cooled like they used to and the AC settings haven’t changed, it could be time to consider a new unit.
Similarly, if there are significant fluctuations throughout the day — especially during the hottest part — it’s a sign that the system is struggling, and AC replacement may be needed. However, many issues can cause a loss in cooling, so it’s essential to consult an HVAC contractor who can determine if replacement or repair is needed.
Air conditioning systems are susceptible to various issues that can lead to a loss of cooling functionality. Some possible causes are a refrigerant leak, which can occur due to aging components or physical damage to the system, a malfunctioning compressor, which is responsible for circulating the refrigerant, and faulty thermostats. It is vital to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage to the system and maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
About Skovron Mechanical Services LLC.
Skovron Mechanical Services LLC. has proudly served the residents of Manchester, NH, and the surrounding areas with unparalleled customer service since 2005. They provide upfront pricing, same-day or next-day service, and 24/7 emergency assistance. Call them today for air conditioning installation and replacement in Manchester, NH.
