“When should I replace my air conditioner?”
This is the question that many Arizona homeowners are currently regretting not thinking of before the dreaded summer arrived at their doorstep.
Well, it’s now June and the blazing, dry heat of the Sonoran desert paired with a malfunctioning HVAC system can make homes feel comparably close to a giant furnace.
We understand that replacing your old AC unit is a costly investment, and it’s understandable that you would like to consider and reconsider the decision. So, without further ado, here is a list of signs to look out for that indicate your AC unit might be close to blowing its last blow.
Table of Contents
Age of the Unit
When it comes time to make the decision to either repair or replace your AC unit, age is an important factor. The average lifespan of a modern AC unit is between 15-20 years, while older AC units last around 10-12 years. If you have a nine-year-old air conditioning system, the cost of repair may not be worth unless it’s an easy fix. To make sure you are making the right decision, consult with your trusted HVAC technician. They will be able to take a look at your AC unit and give you honest advice.
Your Energy Bills Are Skyrocketing
If you are in the Phoenix area, you are no stranger to the high energy bills that come from running your AC during the summer. But what if you’ve noticed that this year it’s higher than usual and you are left wondering “why is my air conditioner so expensive to run? Air conditioners use a lot of electricity, but a loss in efficiency will cause high electric bills.
Plus, an old air conditioner probably means that your system isn’t very efficient to begin with.
Receiving a high energy bill once or twice isn’t a cause for alarm. However, if your energy bills go up and don’t come down, you might need to start looking for a new A/C.
Frequent Breakdowns
Is your AC unit starting to feel like a nightmare due to frequent calls to an HVAC technician for ongoing repairs? Constant repairs can add up quickly, and although you should give your unit the appropriate maintenance in order for it to last its normal lifespan, you should also know when to throw in the towel. Sooner or later, it will be more cost-effective to simply replace it.
Weak Air Flow
If your AC unit takes ages to cool down your home and doesn’t seem to do much against the unrelenting heat, it might be a sign to have a professional take a look at your unit. Moreover, if you stand in front of your vents at home and don’t feel a strong rush of air, this could easily mean there is something obstructing your air ducts or that the compressor is failing. It’s best to call a professional to evaluate the problem, especially because it might be more cost-effective to replace the unit altogether instead of replacing your compressor.
Next Steps
If your HVAC unit shows one of the 4 signs listed above, it’s time to call in the experts and have it replaced. At Greenwood Air, educating the customer is key in our business so that you, the home owner, know what is going on with your home and have the best options for YOU moving forward!