Depending on your climate, air quality, and use, a well-maintained air-conditioning unit could last between 10 and 20 years. HVAC technology, refrigerant, and efficiency have advanced quite a bit in the last decade, so if your unit is more than 10 years old, you may want to consider whether replacing it with a newer model is the right choice for you. It may also be time if your unit needs frequent repairs, doesn’t cool the house like it used to, or seems to cost more to operate every year.
You can ask your HVAC technician for more information the next time they’re performing your annual check-up. Regular maintenance is important to keep your AC unit running efficiently and cooling properly, as well as to extend its life span.
Some signs to call your HVAC tech include:
Strange noises – loose belts may be a simple fix, but a failing motor is a costly repair and may be a sign it’s time to replace your unit.
Bad smells – if it smells musty or moldy, or like refrigerant when you turn on your air conditioning, get it looked at right away. It’s not worth the risk of introducing bacteria or fungus around your house, risking everyone’s health.
Frozen coils – a potentially blocked coil or refrigerant leak needs to be taken care of right away to avoid further damage.
Shutdowns – if the unit stops working or if it runs without cooling, the unit could be overheating, which is a sign that something isn’t working right.
Failure to cool – if your unit just can’t keep the house cool anymore, or if it’s humid inside despite running the AC, if some areas of the house are cool while others are not, or if the unit isn’t responding to the thermostat correctly, call your HVAC tech to find the problem.
Electrical issues – any signs of electrical damage, like loose connections, frayed wires, or visible burn marks are dangerous and can lead to fires in your home.
Increased energy bills – if you’re scratching your head trying to figure out why your energy bills keep going up when nothing seems to have changed in your power usage, it could be pointing to an increasingly inefficient air conditioner.
An air conditioning unit is a major cost for a homeowner, and you’ll want to have any of these issues addressed by a qualified HVAC technician as soon as possible to protect your investment as well as your home, family, and utility bills. When it’s time to replace your unit, your HVAC tech will be a great source of expertise on the newest technology and the perfect unit for your needs.
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