How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced

August 29, 2016

Cool air is arriving quickly and your air conditioning system has survived another season of heat. But surviving this summer doesn’t mean it will keep its cool the next time temperatures soar. Here are common indicators that your air conditioner may be on its last legs.

Not cooling your home

Your air conditioning equipment is supposed to keep you cool and comfortable on the warmest days, so if it’s not keeping your family cool (and you’re unable to get comfortable) there’s probably a problem. There are several situations where your system might stop cooling – compressor failure, a wrong calibrated thermostat, or a refrigerant leak. Depending on the issue, it may be better to just let go of your little engine that could, and move on to a newer, more energy-efficient AC – ideally one that keeps your family cool.

More Frequent Repairs

If you’re needing air conditioner repairs every summer, it may be time to bite the bullet and buy a new one. Frequent air conditioner repairs are a good indicator that your AC is starting to breakdown and you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of summer with a sweltering hot home.

Increase in Energy Bills

If you see a rise in your AC bills that could be an indication that something is amiss. If your air conditioner is working excessive overtime, it could result in you working overtime to afford it, and it might be a better choice for you to invest in a more energy-efficient AC that can easily decrease your peak season utility payments.

Decrease in Air Flow

If your air isn’t flowing as strong as it used to be, it could be a signal that your AC is on its last leg. Take a look at your home’s air filters to make sure they do not require replacing and, if not, call a professional to help find the problem.

Constantly Turning On

If your system is constantly running, more importantly if it’s not blowing much cool air, then you probably have a problem. It could be something that’s easy to rectify with a routine maintenance, but it could also be an indicator that your AC has to work harder to keep your home cool and comfortable and that results in wasted energy and wasted money.

Weird Noise

If your air conditioning system starts producing strange noises, there could be a problem. Higher pitched noises may mean trouble with one of the motors. Rattling noises may indicate a part got loose. Don’t chance it. Call an expert to examine it and decide if it’s a complication worth repairing or if it will always be an ongoing issue.

Signs of Aging

As it is with everything (and everyone), the more something has aged, the weaker it eventually gets. Is your air conditioner not cooling like it did a few years ago? Are specific rooms hotter or colder than others? Is it taking longer to cool your home? These can be typical signals of an aging system. If your air conditioner is floundering and is getting close to or over 10 years in age, call Matz-Rightway and 631-406-9220 for a complimentary in-home estimate and find out about our current promotions on energy-efficient air conditioners.

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