Common Signs You Should Upgrade Your Air Conditioner
The air conditioning system in your home is not only essential for comfort but depending on your location, could be a matter of safety as well. With rising temperatures every year, ensuring your system is working at its best is more important than ever. While AC repairs can get your system back up and running, depending on the age of your unit, they can be a temporary solution. As your system deteriorates, you could be faced with rising energy costs, uncomfortable temperatures, or in the worst-case scenario, a unit that won’t turn on at all. Because of this, it’s important for homeowners to know the ins and outs of AC replacement.
In this article, AC experts offer helpful information on the installation process, signs of a unit ready for replacement, and some maintenance tips too.
The AC Replacement Process
Once you decide that an air conditioner installation is the right choice for your home, it’s important to consult with an AC company. An experienced technician will consider things like the unit requirements, existing ductwork, and the home size. This can all impact the power needed to cool your home.All contractors will have your standard tools like pliers, screwdrivers, and drills. However, an experienced HVAC technician will have highly specialized tools that allow them to complete the installation process easily. This can include things like multimeters to check for electrical hazards, gauges to check refrigerant levels, and tubing cutters to get the lines connected properly.
Signals You Need Air Conditioner Service
Not all issues can be fixed with simple AC services. The older your unit gets, the more these issues will crop up. Eventually, you may be faced with a situation where a repair cost can be high enough that a replacement is the better option.
Of course, there are other warning signs that may indicate the need for an AC replacement. This includes:
- Rising Energy Costs: As your unit ages, it can become less efficient. This can translate into rising energy costs as the unit struggles to cool your home.
- Fluctuating Temperatures: Is your air lukewarm at best? Your unit should be able to produce consistently cool temperatures based on your thermostat setting. If it isn’t, there’s a problem.
- Airflow Issues: Are there certain areas of your home getting little to no airflow? This is common for homeowners with a recent home addition. If your unit is undersized for your square footage, it won’t be able to cool effectively.
- Old Age: On average, an air conditioner can last roughly 10 years with proper care and maintenance. If it’s reaching the end of its lifespan, repair service may only be delaying the inevitable.
- Constant Repairs: The costs of repairs can quickly add up. If you’re scheduling repairs more than once a year, it may be time to consider replacing your unit instead.
Top HVAC Maintenance Tips
Although an AC replacement is a great way to add comfort and value to your home, keeping your existing system in good working condition is also possible. The key to a healthy and long-lasting air conditioner is routine maintenance. For starters, you should always remember to replace your air filter. Not only does it help with air quality, but also it can keep dust and grime off your unit. For a more extensive maintenance plan, it’s always good to work with an AC company. They can inspect the internal components of your unit, clean and lubricate parts, keep the drain lines clear, and ensure your freon levels are correct.
Whether it’s a replacement or maintenance, keeping a healthy working HVAC system is more important than ever!
About Cleary Plumbing & Air
Cleary Plumbing & Air is a family-owned and operated HVAC company serving homeowners in West Palm Beach with top-rated AC repair services for over 25 years. Their technicians arrive in fully stocked trucks and have 24-hour availability to limit any discomfort in your home. Additionally, they offer straight forward pricing so customers never have to worry about surprises.
