While some believe air conditioning is a luxury, others consider it necessary to get through the summer. It may seem contradictory, but the fall and winter months are the best time to schedule an air conditioning upgrade. The off-season offers the shortest wait times and affordable pricing, so you’re ready to go when the sun returns.
Are you wondering if you need an upgrade? Here are six telling signs that it’s time to upgrade your air conditioning unit.
You’re Making Frequent Repair Calls
As much as your HVAC technician loves to see you, it shouldn’t be a frequent occurrence. According to the I Need Cool Air website, seeing your air conditioning specialist once per year for an annual tuneup is ideal. While you may encounter an issue every few years, multiple repair visits within a span of 12 months are a sign of a more significant problem.
If your repair visits and costs are starting to add up, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Even the highest quality and most well-maintained air conditioners eventually reach the end of their lifespan. As a replacement is inevitable, getting it done before you spend thousands on repairs is better.
Your Unit Is More Than 10 Years Old
The average air conditioning unit can last from 10 to 15 years. While a well-maintained unit should reach the higher end of that range, it’s time to consider a replacement after about a decade.
After 10 years, your air conditioner likely won’t be as efficient as it once was. Furthermore, technology evolves quickly, and units become more energy-efficient and eco-friendly with each passing year. Upgrading sooner rather than later could save you money while minimizing your carbon footprint.
Your Power Bill Spikes
A sudden spike in your power bill is a clear indication that one of your HVAC systems is running amok. You can generally tell which system is causing an issue based on the time of year.
If your summer power bill seemed a lot higher this year, take a look back at the previous summer seasons. First, look at the billing rate to determine if there was a sudden increase in price by the energy company. If not, look at your consumption rate. If the consumption has increased compared to previous summers with no other explanation (i.e., renovations or a new pool), there could be an issue with your air conditioning.
You can use the same strategy in the winter to evaluate problems with your furnace.
The Temperature Seems Wrong
If your air conditioner is running, but it doesn’t seem to be hitting the displayed temperature, there’s a good chance you’re overdue for an upgrade. You can confirm your findings by using a cheap outdoor thermometer in the room for reference.
Call a technician when you notice this issue or any random warm spots throughout the home. There could be a fixable issue with the system, but it might be the early signs of an impending upgrade.
You Notice Cycling Issues
Air conditioners aren’t meant to run constantly; you should notice periods when it kicks into gear, followed by lulls as the temperature adjusts. If you notice the air conditioner running non-stop, call a technician right away. This problem typically goes hand-in-hand with uneven temperature distribution and a spike in energy consumption.
Again, a technician might be able to fix this issue with a simple repair. If your unit is getting older and you notice this problem, it’s more likely time for an upgrade.
You Notice Strange Smells or Sounds
Finally, if you notice any strange smells or sounds, call a technician right away. If you smell a burning odor, turn off the unit. A technician can often repair these issues, but they could also indicate a deeper issue with the overall system.
Knowing the signs that it’s time to upgrade your air conditioning will help you save money in the long run. If possible, schedule your replacement for the off-season to save time and money.
