How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced

August 29, 2016

Fall is arriving quickly and your air conditioning system has survived another season of heat. But just because it made it through this summer doesn’t guarantee it will keep the cold air coming the next time the heat is upon you. Here are common signals that your air conditioner may be on its last summer.

Not keeping your cool

Your AC system is supposed to keep you cool and comfortable on the hottest days, so if you’re A/C is not keeping your home cool (and you’re not comfortable) there’s possibly a problem. There are a lot of situations where your system may quit cooling – compressor failure, a wrong calibrated thermostat, or a refrigerant leak. Once you’ve determined the issue, it may be better to just let go of your little engine that could, and invest in a newer, more energy-efficient air conditioner – preferably one that keeps your family cool.

More Frequent Repairs

If you’re calling for AC repairs every summer, it may be time to give it up and purchase a new one. Frequent AC repairs are a good sign that your AC is starting to go out and you don’t want to be left in the middle of the dog days of summer with a blistering hot home.

Rise in Energy Bills

If you see a jump in your HVAC bills that could be a sign that something is wrong. If your air conditioner is working too much overtime, it could end up causing you to work overtime to afford it, and it may be a better option for you to purchase a more energy-efficient air conditioner that can easily lower your peak season utility payments.

Less Air Flow

If your air isn’t blowing as forceful as it used to be, it could be a signal that your air conditioner is on its way out. Take a look at your home’s air filters to confirm they do not need replacing and, if not, call a professional to help determine the problem.

Constantly Turning On

If your system is constantly running, particularly if it’s not producing much cool air, then you likely have a problem. It may be something that’s easy to rectify with a Precision tune-up, but it could also be an indicator that your air conditioner has to work more to keep you cool and comfy and that means wasted energy and wasted money.

Strange Noise

If your air conditioning system starts making unusual noises, there could be a problem. Higher pitched noises may mean an issue with one of the motors. Rattling noises may mean a part has come loose. Don’t chance it. Call an HVAC technician to examine it and figure out if it’s an issue worth repairing or if it is going to end up being an ongoing issue.

Signs of Aging

Similar to everything (and everyone), the older something gets, the weaker it eventually gets. Is your air conditioner not cooling like it did a few years ago? Are some rooms hotter or colder than others? Is it taking a larger amount of time to cool your home? All of these are usual indicators of an aging AC. If your AC is having a hard time and is nearing or over 10 years in age, call Donelson Air Service Experts and 615-953-9885 for a complimentary in-home estimate and learn about our current rebates on energy-efficient air conditioning systems.

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