How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced
Fall is coming soon and your AC has made it through another season of heat. But making it through this summer doesn’t mean it will keep its cool the next time the heat is upon you. Here are common signs that your air conditioning system may be on its way out.
Not cooling well
Your AC system is meant to keep you cool and comfortable on the steamiest of days, so if you’re A/C is not keeping your family cool (and you’re uncomfortable) there’s possibly a problem. There are a lot of situations where your AC may quit cooling – a wrongly calibrated thermostat, a refrigerant leak, or compressor failure. Once you know the situation, it may be better to just let go of your little engine that could, and purchase a newer, more energy-efficient AC – ideally one that keeps you cool.
More Frequent Repairs
If you’re requiring air conditioning repairs every year, it may be time to give it up and purchase a new one. Frequent AC repairs are a good signal that your AC is starting to die and you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of the dog days of summer with a roasting hot home.
Paying More in Energy Bills
If you see a hike in your HVAC bills that could be a signal that something is amiss. If your air conditioner is working excessive overtime, it could end up causing you to work overtime to afford it, and it may be a better option for you to invest in a more energy-efficient air conditioner that can easily lessen your peak season utility payments.
Less Air Flow
If your air isn’t blowing as powerful as it used to be, it could be an indicator that your AC is on its last leg. Check your home’s air filters to make sure they do not require replacing and, if not, call a technician to help determine the problem.
Constantly Turning On
If your system is constantly running, particularly if it’s not supplying much cool air, then you probably have a problem. It may be an issue that’s easy to rectify with a seasonal tune-up, but it could also be a signal that your system has to work more to cool your home and that ends up costing you wasted energy and wasted money.
Strange Noise
If your AC starts making unusual noises, there could be a problem. Higher pitched noises could mean trouble with one of the motors. Rattling noises might signal a part got loose. Don’t chance it. Call an HVAC technician to take a look and figure out if it’s a problem worth repairing or if it is going to end up being an ongoing issue.
Signs of Aging
Just like everything (and everyone), the more something ages, the weaker it ultimately gets. Is your system not cooling as well as it did a few years ago? Are specific rooms cooler or warmer than others? Is it taking a larger amount of time to cool your home? These can be usual signs of an aging system. If your system is struggling and is getting close to or over 10 years in age, call Becht/Givens Service Experts and 502-785-8230 for a complimentary in-home estimate and ask about our current rebates on energy-efficient systems.
