Signs You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner
Did you know there are currently an estimated 1.6 billion air condition units currently in operation? Despite our dependence on these devices for cool air in hot weather, not many people know about proper AC maintenance.
One of the most frequent questions asked by air conditioning customers is ‘how long do AC units last?’. There is no single correct answer to this question because it depends on a variety of factors like location, AC model and climate.
However, there are some universal signs you can look for that will warn you when your AC is about to give out. In this article, we’ll teach you those signs and give you a general lifetime estimate for your AC unit. Let’s get started.
Signs You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner
There are around seven warning signs that your air conditioner is going to give out soon. If your model starts exhibiting more than two of these symptoms, then you should consider replacing it as soon as possible.
1) It’s Over 15 Years Old
Typically 15 years is the cut off point for an air conditioning unit. Once it reaches this age you should consider replacing it with a more affordable model.
However, certain AC units can be prolonged if you properly service your unit. You can find out how often you should service your AC unit by visiting our article here.
2) It Costs a Lot of Money to Run
Do you cringe every time you open a utility bill? If you do, then one of the problems may be a decaying or old air conditioner. As AC units get older they usually draw more power to provide the same amount of cool air.
If you own an older model made in the mid-1970s, then you’re likely paying way more than you need to for your energy bill.
These types of AC models used as much as 50% more energy than models made today. So, if you want to cut your energy bill in half, then consider replacing it.
3) The Repairs Are Too Costly
Certain parts in an AC unit may go well before the other ones reach their natural end. In some cases, repairs may be a viable option, but often it is costly. This fact is especially true if a part like the AC compressor breaks.
If an air conditioning unit is relatively new, then it may be worth it to try to see what the problem is.
However, a machine that’s ten years or older isn’t likely to survive the repairs for very long. In this case, the best option is simply to purchase a new AC unit.
4) It Still Uses Freon
If your air conditioning unit uses freon, then you should consider replacing it with a model that uses the new refrigerant known as R410A.
The federal government is currently in the process of discontinuing freon because it contains chlorine and damages the ozone layer. As a result, freon prices are expected to skyrocket.
So, anyone with an AC that requires freon will need to pay a lot of money to keep up with their machine. Due to the cost and environmental impact, it’s almost always more viable to replace the unit.
5) It Stops Working Often
There’s nothing worse than the air conditioner cutting out on a hot, summer day. Units that are ready to be replaced will randomly cut out and require repairs before they can become operational.
One repair isn’t too bad, but it rarely is one instance. Multiple repair costs can quickly add up. So, if you notice frequent power failures, then it’s time to replace them.
6) It Doesn’t Cool the Room Properly
If an AC unit isn’t cooling a room properly, then the problem may lie in a dirty system. Try cleaning out the air conditioner of any dust or grime. Then, provide proper lubrication to any potentially rusty parts.
You should also make sure that all the parts are secured tightly since they can easily come loose.
If the unit still doesn’t properly cool down your house, then the issue lies in the size. The AC likely isn’t big enough for your house. As such, you will need to replace it with a bigger one.
7) You Want More Options
If you’re tired of the basic nature of your AC unit, then you should invest in one of the more advanced models.
These types of air conditioners can provide energy-saving capabilities. They also come with features like heating and cooling for a specific room.
How Long Do AC Units Last Usually?
According to HomeGuides, an AC unit should last between 12 and 15 years. However, if the unit isn’t adequately matched to the cooling cycles of the home, then its lifespan can be significantly reduced.
For example, a large air conditioner that is running on a short cycle while turning on and off violently. This can then damage the main compressor, which destroys the unit. And we wouldn’t recommend replacing the compressor once it goes out.
The part is by far the most expensive in the system. As such, it’s usually worth it to just replace the whole system — preferably with one that matches the cooling cycles of the place it’s in.
Not Sure If Your Ac Unit Is Working? Call Walrath HVAC
We hope this article helped answer the question ‘how long do AC units last?’ for you. If you decide that it’s time to replace your air conditioning unit, then you need an HVAC service you can trust to get the job done.
Otherwise, a dishonest company may overcharge you or do a poor job. If you live in the Lakewood area of Colorado and need help with your air conditioner, then look no further than Walrath HVAC.
We’re a company that prides itself on bringing friendly service, transparent pricing and problem prevention to every single job.
We also provide a variety of specialized commercial jobs. You can contact Walrath HVAC and request a service by visiting this link here.