Air conditioning can be nothing short of a blessing during the summer; your only escape from the scorching heat and the blazing sun. However, just like all good things, there comes a time when your appliances ask for repairs or replacement. Your AC unit is no different.
There are a number of reasons why you would want to replace your AC instead of making do with the old one; you may be moving to a new home that requires a bigger air conditioner or a smaller one. Maybe it is obsolete and needs repair, but you would rather buy a new one than spend too much on fixing it.
Whatever your motive, you cannot just go on to replace your air conditioner without a valid reason. It takes money, time and energy to do so. So here are five sure signs that signal it is time to buy a new AC unit.
Aging AC Unit
If your current air conditioner is too old, you must consider replacing it. The lifespan of an air conditioner is about 8 to 15 years, depending on many factors such as the quality of its parts and maintenance. A timeworn air conditioner will need to be replaced soon due to issues that can end up costing you.
Air conditioners that use the R-22 refrigerants can cause a problem too because this cooling agent is now not readily available in the market and has become very expensive.
Rising Electricity Bills
If your electricity bills are increasing every month, this indicates that you need to get rid of the old air conditioner. With age, ACs become less efficient. As a result, they consume and waste energy, causing an increase in your electric bills. This may occur because its parts are becoming old or because the refrigerant is leaking out slowly.
If you happen to notice this surge in your electricity bills without an increase in usage, then you should certainly consider having your air conditioner checked or replaced.
Needs Repairs Often
If your AC has needed repairs repeatedly lately, it may be in need of replacement. Some ACs will require maintenance or repair jobs once in a while but if this has become an ongoing thing, you have to pay close attention. Instead of spending a lot of money on repairs every month, it is better you invest that money in a new AC. This will save you some money, time, and frustration.
Otherwise, you may end up spending more on something that is beyond repair in the longer run than buying a new item.
Unusual Sounds or Odors
If your air conditioner produces an uncharacteristic odor or an unusual sound, you need to get someone to replace it. The air conditioner does make a variety of sounds frequently, but any peculiar sound, or an unpleasant odor will only be produced when something is going wrong. The noise could be generated by a part that is failing or has failed already.
Burnt insulation could produce the smell on some wires. The problem may be minimal and may just require a simple repair. However, if the air conditioner professional suggests that you should replace it, don’t hesitate in following his instructions. Remember, something as dire as a fatal accident can occur due to a faulty AC.
Humidity Problems
An air conditioner is supposed to add comfort to your home. If turning on the AC means that there will be much humidity, this means that your AC has lost its touch and needs to be replaced. However, you do not need to decide on replacing the unit straight away, it is always better to look before you leap. Take a look at the air filters before doing anything else.
If these are clogged, this might be the reason your AC is not working properly.
It is always advisable that when you identify a fault in the working of your air conditioner, get a professional to come take a look. If a minor repair is suggested, go for it but if replacement is advised, do it for the sake of your safety and comfort. For Orlando residents needing repair or replacement of their AC unit, I would advise utilizing the services of Bob Heinmiller.
Edrick Hypolite is an electrical engineer living in the Orlando area and a do-it-yourself enthusiast. Sometimes he writes on the side about things he can’t do on his own – particularly as it pertains to the air conditioning. You can learn more about Edrick by visiting Google+.