When Should I Replace My Air Conditioner?

The decision to replace an air conditioning unit is quite huge, considering it results in a huge cash outflow and also the fact that your old AC unit might work a few more months or years. These are always the sentiments behind the replacement of an AC unit, but you need to be practical. When it is time, your AC unit itself starts giving you hints that its life is almost over.

If you are having trouble determining whether your AC unit needs replacement, this blog will help.

Dive right in!

Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

If your AC is old, then look for these signs to know if you need air conditioner replacement in Orange County:

Age of the Unit

How old is your AC unit?

The average lifespan of an AC unit is 10-15 years. With regular maintenance and proper upkeep, it might last for a few more years, but its efficiency plummets, and it becomes a liability instead of a much-needed cooling appliance. So, it is advised that if your AC is nearing its shelf life, you consider replacing it.

Frequent Repairs

How often does your AC requires maintenance? Is it once a month, once in six months?

If you need AC repair frequently, then it’s time to consider AC replacement. As the unit gets old and usage is continuous, the parts of the machine experience wear and tear, which requires repairing one part or the other time and again.

If you haven’t had your AC unit inspected in a long time and repairs arise, it might be due to irregular maintenance and accumulated dust and debris. However, if, despite maintenance, the AC is breaking down, decide now.

A general threshold is that if the repair cost of your AC is more than 50% of the cost of the AC itself, then it is better to invest in a new one.

Your Energy Bills Have Increased

Have you witnessed a sudden increase in your energy bills? The reason behind the increase might be your outdated AC unit. Old electrical appliances become inefficient with time and consume more energy than modern appliances, causing a spike in energy bills.

However, you cannot decide to replace your AC solely based on increased energy bills. Look for other signs as well.

Uneven Cooling

It is easier to sense that your AC is not cooling right. Does it not cool the space at 17 degrees? Is it not evenly cooling the rooms? Is one room cool while the other one isn’t?

All of these are signs that your AC is struggling with cooling the house.

Couple it with the other signs, and you will know if it is time for AC replacement.

Strange Noises

Appliances might not talk, but they can definitely make noises to hint that something is wrong. These noises can include squealing noises, a loud, unusual buzz, banging inside the unit, etc. If the noises continue despite the repair, then it is time to consult an expert for air conditioner replacement in Orange County.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

An air conditioning unit is not merely responsible for cool air but also ensures you enjoy pure air indoors. Over time, though parts break down and become inefficient, you can sense humidity, dust and allergens in the air. They can be very harmful, especially if you have a family member with respiratory issues. So, consult a professional and plan air conditioner replacement.

Is it Better to Replace or Repair?

It depends on individual circumstances. In some cases, when the AC unit is relatively new but lacks regular maintenance, it can be remedied by repairing the worn-out parts and replacing the crucial ones, and the unit will start working efficiently again. In such cases, when the repair cost is minimal or significantly lesser than a new unit, it is recommended that it be repaired.

On the other hand, if your AC unit is old, it doesn’t fit in with the modern HVAC system you have installed, doesn’t cool efficiently, has lost its efficiency, and you are not satisfied, then air conditioner replacement is recommended.

To make the right decision, consult an air conditioning expert in Orange County and learn about your options. They can give you the correct quote for repair and replacement.

Final Words

It is easy to detect the signs discussed above if you are attentive and take good care of your household appliances. Like every other appliance, AC units also come with a ticking clock that lasts for sound 15 years, but afterwards, you must replace the AC.

So, if your AC indicates the signs, call an expert now for air conditioner replacement in Orange County. Your comfort is paramount. Do not compromise it; get a new AC unit installed.