Like with most household appliances, your air conditioner will need some repair and tune-up work from time to time and as it ages. Usually, it will exhibit some telltale signs letting you know it needs attention. When it comes to knowing when to completely replace your older AC with a brand-new one, there will also be indicators. Learn more about a few of the main signs it’s time to schedule an AC installation in Madera.
AC Frequently Leaks Refrigerant
The coolant inside your air conditioner plays a crucial role in cooling the air that gets pushed throughout your property. Without a sufficient level of coolant, your AC won’t function like it should. The same applies to when you have a refrigerant leak. Usually, it’s possible to have trained technicians repair this type of problem. However, the bigger issue is if the leaks keep happening. In this scenario, the better solution would be to replace your AC with a new one. Constant fluid leakage should tell you that your older system is beyond repairing.
Energy Bills Keep Getting Higher
As your air conditioner ages, it will naturally lose some of the efficiency it once had. When this happens, you may notice that it runs for longer cycles just to cool down your place. As it runs longer, you will then see a corresponding increase in your utility bills. This will not be the typical increase you expect as you start using your AC in the summer. Rather, it will be more like a sudden spike in costs.
You could invest money in repairs and/or tune-ups if you notice this problem. However, your aging equipment won’t turn back the clock and become any younger. The longer you keep it around, the more likely it will continue to experience problems with performance that will end up costing you in the long run.
Repairs Don’t Fix Problems
It’s proper to set up a repair appointment when you notice an issue with your AC. However, sometimes issues are beyond fixing, especially with older cooling systems. To know when to stop scheduling repair service for your AC, go by the handy 50% rule. If the total cost of all the recent repairs exceeds half the price of a new AC, then go with the replacement. There will be an initial investment with the new unit, but over time, you should save money by not having to constantly have it repaired like your older equipment.
System Is Just Too Old
When it comes to how long a typical cooling appliance can last, it’s around 15 years. If you’ve had your AC for at least this long, then you’re definitely in line to replace it with a new one. However, we at Brian’s Heating & Cooling, Inc. recommend that you avoid waiting until the last minute before setting up an AC replacement. Around the 10-year mark, set up a consultation with us. We’ll assess your current setup and let you know if you’re good for keeping it around for a bit longer. We’ll also let you know if we feel it’s time to swap out your old AC for an upgrade.
AC Too Disruptive to Your Indoor Environment
Air conditioners should make a low humming noise when running. Beyond this, you should never hear any other sounds from it. You should also definitely not smell any strange odors from your system. If you begin hearing odd noises and/or smelling foul stenches from your aging AC, it may be time to replace it, especially if these are recurring issues.
These strange sounds and smells will have a big impact on your indoor environment. You don’t want to put up with an AC that constantly rattles, clangs, whistles, screeches, or hisses. You also don’t want to have to hold your nose every time the system kicks on. Replacement is the smart play here as newer systems won’t typically have these issues.
Contact Our Team
Brian’s Heating & Cooling, Inc. is the place you can trust for your new air conditioner installation in Madera and surrounding areas. For your peace of mind, we offer financing options on approved credit to help you afford a new AC. We’re proficient with cooling maintenance and repairs as well. Give us a call today to set up service.
