Signs Your Air Conditioner Need To be Replaced
Replacing your HVAC system or a component of it is never an easy decision to make. The costs of a new system can be considerable, especially when money is tight. But replacement of your furnace or air conditioner unit is necessary if they’re past their useful life.
Air conditioning units are extremely durable, but, unfortunately, they don’t last forever. If you have your HVAC technician on speed dial because of frequent breakdowns, give the expert technicians at Hans Heating and Air a call.
Hans Heating and Air has provided the great people of Central Alabama with expert and trusted service for decades. When you call on the NATE-certified HVAC technicians at Hans for air conditioner replacement, we’ll handle your service call professionally, and you can trust that we’ll get the job done right the first time.
How Long Does an Air Conditioner Last?
Well-maintained AC units can sometimes last 15 or more years. However, if the unit is 10- to 12-years old and has seen frequent repairs over the years, then it might be time to switch to a more energy-efficient unit.
Units that haven’t been maintained regularly are put under more stress, causing the units to work harder – which leads to a spike in your energy bills. Properly installed air conditioners can save you up to 20 percent on your year air conditioner costs, according to Energy Star.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs to be Replaced
Aside from age, there are several other signs you should look out for that might indicate your home needs a new air conditioner. Some of the common ones, include:
Unusual Noises
Loud noises coming from the outdoor AC unit could indicate an issue with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment, according to Energy Star. Unusual noises can include screeching, clanking, whistling or banging. If you’re hearing any of these, call your HVAC system repair company today.
Frequent Repairs or Breakdowns
If you’ve had the unit repaired recently or frequently, then your air conditioner is less efficient and likely needs to be replaced. Also, if you are currently facing an expensive repair – and the air conditioning system is 10-plus years old – then it would make more financial sense to buy a new, more energy-efficient unit.
Trouble Keeping the Home Cool
If your air conditioning system is struggling to keep your entire home cool in the summer – some rooms might be cooler than others, for example – then your system isn’t running as efficiently as it should. Uneven cooling could also indicate issues with the ductwork, such as a block, clog or leak.
Does Your AC still use Freon?
If your AC unit still uses freon (R22) for its refrigerant, then you have an easy decision to make. The federal government discontinued the use of freon on units built starting in 2010 because of its ozone-depleting qualities. All production of freon was stopped in January 2020.
So if you have an older unit that only takes R22, you’re required to buy a new AC unit that uses a newer type of refrigerant called R410A, which is better for the environment.
Higher Energy Bills
If the energy bills have seen a recent spike over the past few years – and the outdoor temperature is comparable to recent springs and summers – then the unit is running less efficient. If you have high energy bills and an older unit, then replacement is your answer.
Is Your Air Conditioner Leaking?
Water underneath your outdoor AC unit might indicate a broken or clogged drain pipe, which can be repaired. If your air conditioning system is leaking refrigerant, though, call an HVAC technician immediately. Refrigerants are a health hazard and this should be inspected right away.
Is the System Constantly Running?
If the system is constantly running and struggling to keep your home cool, then you might have a bad AC air compressor, which circulates refrigerant through the system. AC compressors can cost more than $1,000. Depending on the other factors we’ve mentioned, replacement is the likely option.
Unusual Smells
Any smell emanating from your air conditioner is not a good one and should be inspected. Some of these smells could include rotten eggs, gas, a musty or moldy smell or electrical in nature.
If you’re unsure whether your AC should be repaired or replaced, contact the HVAC technicians at Hans Heating and Air. We’ll provide consultation and advise you on the best course of action.
Why Choose Hans for Your AC Installation?
When you choose Hans Heating and Air for your air conditioning installation needs, you’ll get free estimates on new AC installations. You can also trust that you’ll receive the best equipment at the best price. When you choose Hans, you receive:
- Same-day service
- Service that exceeds expectations
- Highly trained, skilled and experienced installers
- Accuracy, honesty and integrity
Give Hans a Call Today
Montgomery, Alabama, is no place to be in the summer without a properly functioning air conditioning unit. Our summers here are hot! No matter where you live in Montgomery and Central Alabama, you need a reliable AC unit that will keep you cool throughout the season.
Whether you’re building a new home or replacing an old AC system, contact your friends at Hans Heating and Air today for all of your air conditioning installation needs.