Top Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs Replacement
Sometimes, being a homeowner means making difficult decisions. We all know that investing into your home will increase its value, but knowing what should be updated and what isn’t worthwhile can be complicated.
Decisions can be even less straightforward when you start taking a look at your HVAC system. Unless you are a trained Maricopa AC contractor, it can be difficult to know whether an AC unit needs a tuneup or more extensive repair. At some point you may need to decide if your unit should get a major repair, or just be replaced altogether.
Replacing an old AC unit is a big decision. You’ll want to choose the right unit for your home’s needs, ideally without rushing to make a selection. But if your AC unit breaks down on a 110 degree Arizona summer day, you may not have as much time to think through the decision as you’d like.
Like an old car, AC units give clues that they are wearing down before they fail. Consider these top signs that your AC might need replacement so you can be prepared before your unit breaks down completely.
Your Air Conditioning Unit is Over Ten Years Old
This may seem like an obvious answer, but if your AC unit is nearing the end of its service life, it’s time to do some research and start preparing to purchase a new one. Since AC units are usually installed outside and exposed to extreme temperatures, they often need to be replaced sooner than furnaces and other indoor appliances. An older AC unit is expected to last for 10-12 years, while a modern AC can last 15-20 years.
Actual lifespan of your AC unit will depend on a number of factors, most importantly whether it received regular maintenance and repair from a Maricopa AC service. Your unit’s lifespan may be shorter if you skipped annual tune-ups. In climates such as Arizona, where AC units are used in extremely hot temperatures for many months of the year, lifespan may be shorter than it would be in more temperate climate. An AC unit that is undersized for your home is also likely to wear out sooner.
Also keep in mind that as your AC unit gets older, the parts it needs for repairs can become difficult to find. This may mean you need to purchase a new unit even if yours is still in generally good condition.
Your Air Conditioner Breaks Down Frequently
If your AC unit is tuned up annually from a qualified Maricopa HVAC service, it should not break down. Most AC issues are the result of a lack of maintenance and can be prevented with proper care. A good Gilbert HVAC technician can also find and correct any potential problems before they become urgent.
However, if your unit is having multiple breakdowns despite regular maintenance, you should think about getting it replaced. It’s often cheaper in the long run to purchase a new unit than to keep paying for repairs to an older one.
Your Energy Bills Are Skyrocketing
Generally, your energy bill should be about the same amount every month, unless there is sudden change in your energy usage. You may notice some fluctuation from running your furnace or AC unit. If your usage hasn’t changed but your bills are significantly higher, it might be time to get a new AC.
Higher bills mean that your AC is malfunctioning or not running with as much efficiency as it used to. It’s probably a better financial decision to replace your unit than to pay for higher bills every month.
Your AC Unit Uses R-22 Freon
In 2020, the EPA began phasing R-22 freon out of use. This is the refrigerant used by AC units that are over ten years old. If your unit is using freon, you can still keep it. The new guidelines just mean that you can no longer purchase R-22 freon to refill if your unit needs it. At that time, you’ll need to replace it with an AC that doesn’t use R-22.
Buying a new AC unit doesn’t have to be a stressful and unexpected decision. When you pay attention to the clues your unit is giving you and make sure it is tuned up annually by Maricopa AC repair, you’ll likely know in advance when you need to get it replaced.
Experienced AC Service in Maricopa
If you suspect your air conditioner is nearing the end of its life, give 911 AC Repair a call. Our friendly and experienced technicians can provide any needed repairs or help you choose the best new unit for your home or business. We provide fair pricing, quality work, and great customer service! For a free estimate on your AC replacement, call 911 AC Repair today!
20625 N, Ancon Ave
Maricopa, AZ 85139
Phone: (480)-360-1234
Email: support@911-ac.com
