In a perfect world, you would replace your Air Conditioner every 10 years, sometimes 15 years. However, just like with any mechanical equipment, it can go out sooner than expected if not maintained well. Now, before we get into specific numbers, ask yourself:
- Have my heating and cooling bills been much more than usual?
- Should my AC unit make those noises?
- Has it been hotter every summer?
- When was the system last installed?
All or one of these questions are to be taken into consideration when replacing a system. There’s other questions to think about as well, but these are some of the main points before inquiring about a new system.
Calculate your energy bills
In order to create a much stronger analysis of what you want to do with your system, you must go back and calculate your monthly energy payments. Go about 3-5 years back and see if your bills have gradually increased since then. Your AC unit may not be functioning well and it might just need a repair which might bring the energy costs down as well. Then again, there’s other elements to take into consideration whether that’s all your system needs or if it needs to be replaced to have a better outcome in the long run. It’s a matter of doing your research and finding what the best option is for you and your family. That is also why many companies in the HVAC industry have technicians and other informants to answer any questions you may have. One of our customers made the decision to replace his and immediately noticed how his electric bills had gone down from before. Watch the video below.
Your AC is making weird noises
When your AC unit develops a weird HVAC noise, it’s probably a good idea to get it checked out and see if there’s a problem that needs to be fixed immediately before it gets to the point where you’ll have to replace it. It’s said that “time heals,” however, it’s not always the case with HVAC units. It’s more like: “It may get worse before it gets better.” And eventually it will be better once a professional is out there to check it out. There’s some common noises to pay attention to before calling someone out:
- Humming – Continuous humming could mean that there’s something loose. It’s not that serious, but if you can’t find the issue and let it continue–refer back to our “it may get worse before it gets better” quote and call an HVAC professional.
- Pulsing – A low pulsing sound is normal for the unit to have, now if it becomes loud enough that you can hear it inside your home, then there might be some loose parts within like the fan blades, panels, or of that nature. Shut off your AC unit and see if you see something faulty or call someone.
- Rattling – A rattling noise can mean a variety of things. But we’ll mention a few common reasons: Loose panels or screws which make a good amount of noise, debris collecting which means it’s clogging up your AC system with leaves, dirt, sticks, you name it. This noise can mean a breakdown but can be fixed or cleaned if properly done.
- Screaming – One of the most annoying sounds is the high-pitched screaming noise. More often than not it’ll be a refrigerant leak and it’s advised to turn off your AC right away as it can be dangerous for you and your family. Have a professional come check it out and evaluate the problem.
- Whirring – Whirring is a weird wing making noise, or sounds like a helicopter. If this is the case, then it’s more than likely that your AC unit needs repair within its mechanical pieces. Some causes of this are bad bearings, or faulty fans. It’s highly recommended to call an HVAC professional to come take a look at it.
The longer you wait to get these inspected, the more expensive it’ll get to fix. Worse yet, you may have to replace the whole system and we don’t want to have that problem, right? So don’t wait for it to “get better.”
Has it been hotter every Summer?
If your home is not as comfortable as it used to be, then it’s time to take a good look at the aging system or if it’s even the right size for your home. Nevertheless, you’d want the air conditioner to do its job in the first place! You don’t want to be sweating bullets inside your home when it’s already blaring hot outside. Discomfort can be annoying, and annoyance can be frustrating, frustration will not allow you to indicate that there’s a clear problem with your system. Therefore, calling someone to inspect it and see what’s going on will be the closure you need to see if a replacement needs to happen in order to get your comfort for. We’re pretty good at that.
When was the system last installed?
It is recommended that homeowners replace their HVAC system every 10-15 years. Sometimes if not taken good care of, it can be replaced as early as 8 years. Especially systems that use R-22 freon are also outdated which are harmful to the environment. Updating and upgrading to a new system replacement with better carbon footprint can also reduce your monthly energy bills. It’s a win-win-win. You also have to realize that modern technology is always changing and rapidly increasing at speeds that one can’t imagine. We’re always learning and equipped for the best.
Call 1st Choice Air Solutions to get you back on track
If you or anyone that you know has some questions about when to replace your AC unit, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, then it’s probably best you contact us anyway. It’s why we offer free estimates on your system replacements if you give us a call now at (817) 888-5300. We want to make sure you’re safe and ready to stay cool throughout the summer.