How to Tell if AC Replacement Is Necessary
With warmer weather coming, now is the time to start thinking about air conditioning. After all, temperatures will start to rise again, and homes will rely on their air conditioners to keep comfortable. Homeowners will want to make sure that their air conditioners are up to the task of cooling them down and will not break down when they are needed the most.
So, is the air conditioner still in great shape? Or is it time to get an air conditioner replacement? This post will share some common signs to call a professional to inspect the system and determine if it’s time to replace the air conditioner. Besides the obvious signs of an air conditioner nearing the end of its lifespan or an AC that needs repair too frequently, here are some common signs AC replacement may be required.
Insufficient Cooling
An air conditioner’s primary concern is to cool indoor spaces to the desired temperature. Any AC that fails to cool the home correctly, has warm air coming out of vents instead, or has poor airflow should be inspected by a technician to determine the cause and whether an air conditioner repair, replacement, or maintenance is necessary.
Sometimes, a problem with the AC related to its cooling capability will show up as warm air blowing out of the vents. It can also be detected by noticing that the AC is running too long as it struggles to reach the temperature set on the thermostat. Any of these signs of poor cooling should signal to homeowners that something is wrong and that they should call a professional.
High Cooling Costs
Another indicator of a troubled AC can be observed when the monthly energy bill comes in. An unusually high energy bill, especially without any significant changes in a household’s energy consumption, could mean that the air conditioner isn’t working efficiently and is working harder to compensate for issues within the system.
Older air conditioners in need of replacement are less energy efficient and could be the cause of the unusually high energy bill. If an air conditioner is over ten years old and starting to have problems, it’s likely time to replace it. Additionally, the inefficiency could be caused by a problem with the air conditioning that needs repair or an air conditioner where maintenance has been neglected, requiring AC maintenance.
Unusual Smells and Sounds
Unusual sounds or bad smells coming from the air conditioning system can also be warning signs of a malfunction or impending failure. A burning smell, for instance, could indicate overheating of components or a problem with the AC's electrical parts. Similarly, strange noises such as grinding, squealing, banging, or other unusual sounds can signal problems, from loose parts to serious damage within the unit.
Ignoring these symptoms not only risks exacerbating the issue, leading to more expensive repairs or a complete system replacement but also compromises the safety and comfort of the home. When these signs are noticed, an HVAC professional should be called to inspect the air conditioning system, find the problem, and determine the best solution, whether that be repair or replacement.
About Hall’s Heating & Air
Hall’s Heating & Air has over 40 years of experience serving Pampa and the surrounding areas. They provide dependable service, straightforward pricing, and the latest technology. Call them for air conditioning replacement and installation services in Pampa, TX.