When Should You Replace Your Air Conditioning Unit

Having the best machine doesn’t guarantee a homeowner a long-lasting air-conditioning unit. Winter always brings some laxity because the air-conditioner isn’t used most of the time. As a homeowner, you need to get ready before summer kicks in.

Like any other machine, air-conditioning units break down and require repair sometimes. Yet the biggest challenge would be how to know which part to replace or repair when you have little knowledge about the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system. Unless you get an air conditioning contractor for maintenance and repair, who will help you decide on your malfunctioning system?

So, when should you replace your air-conditioning unit? You may know this based on the following indicators: 

Age Of The Air-Conditioner

They say nothing lasts forever, even for machines. When your air-conditioning unit has done its job for more than 15 years, it’s time to give it a rest and get an upgraded air-conditioning unit. Recent models have better filtration systems, thus improving air circulation in your home for easier breathing.

Most air-conditioning units last between 10 and 15 years on average. It will be less productive beyond that and will consume more power, leading to a surge in electricity bills in your home.

As you continue to use your air-conditioning system, it ages and may occasionally malfunction. Hence, a replacement is ideal to save on the cost of repairs and maintenance.

When It Produces Less Cold Air

If you notice that the air circulation frequency in your house decreases as the goes by, this could signify that your air-conditioning unit is not working as it should.

Moreover, when an air-conditioning unit is unable to circulate cool air, the issue could range from low levels of Freon to compressor breakdown. These issues can result in uncomfortable air circulation in your home.

This is where professional technicians come in. They will assess the situation and provide a quote for the cost of repairs. If extensive damage is seen, it would be best to replace the unit as this will be a more cost-efficient move than spending on constant repairs in the long run.

Presence Of Moisture And Leakage

Excessive moisture and water leakage from your air-conditioning unit are causes of concern.

If your air-conditioning unit is leaking, this could be due to clogged or disconnected drain lines. The water may leak down to the floor and furniture, which may cause slips and falls. In turn, this would lead to the growth of mold or mildew in the house, posing a health risk to you and your family, while also causing high St George air conditioning repair bills along with the medical ones.

The leakage is also dangerous as it can affect the power circulation, leading to possible short-circuits in the house and damaging more machines that use a power supply.

Unusual Noise From The Unit

You may be used to the sound of the air-conditioning unit shutting down and when you’re turning it on. However, the unit can begin producing unusual and deafening sounds when something is wrong with it.

When you notice banging, loud rattles, or even whistling sounds from the air-conditioning unit, these may be signs of a significant breakdown. The problem could be the belt slipping out from its position or motor failure in the machine.

Thus, it’s high time to get a replacement as soon as possible because these unusual sounds could be signs that you should let go of your unit rather than have it repaired.

Presence Of Dust Particles

Even though the work of an air-conditioning unit is to regulate the flow of warm and cool air around the house, it also serves to ventilate the house, keeping it free from dust particles.

When you notice an increase in dust particles around your house, that means your air- conditioning unit can no longer filter the air as it is required to do.

Check if the unit needs to be cleaned. If the problem persists, it may be high time to replace your air-conditioning unit.

Conclusion

Your air-conditioning unit serves a significant role in ensuring you get a conducive environment around your house so you can relax after a hard day at work. It helps regulate your home temperature during the cold and warm seasons.

However, there would come a time when they would need repairs or even replacement. Thus, it’s crucial to ensure such machines are well maintained and serviced. Regular servicing and cleaning of the HVAC system will ensure they can serve you for a long time. Moreover, it would be best to acquire modern air-conditioning units to save on electric bills and to help filter out dust particles and allergens.