How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced

August 29, 2016

Autumn is arriving quickly and your air conditioning system has outlived another season of heat. But just because it made it through this summer doesn’t guarantee it will keep its cool the next time temperatures soar. Here are common indicators that your AC may be on its way out.

Not keeping your cool

Your air conditioner is supposed to keep you cool and comfortable on the steamiest of days, so if your system is not keeping your home cool (and you’re uncomfortable) there’s likely a problem. There are many situations where your AC may stop cooling – a refrigerant leak, compressor failure, or a wrongly calibrated thermostat. Depending on the problem, it may be best to just let go of your little engine that could, and move on to a newer, more energy-efficient air conditioner – preferably one that keeps your family cool.

More Frequent Repairs

If you’re requiring air conditioning repairs every year, it may be time to give it up 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 left in the middle of the dog days of summer with a roasting hot home.

Paying More in Energy Bills

If you see a jump in your cooling bills that could be a sign that something is wrong. If your AC is working extreme overtime, it could result in you working overtime to afford it, and it might be a better choice for you to purchase a more energy-efficient AC that can easily lower your peak season cooling payments.

Drop in Air Flow

If your air isn’t blowing as forceful as it used to be, it could be a sign that your air conditioning system is on its last leg. Inspect your home’s air filters to confirm they do not need replacing and, if not, call a technician to help find the problem.

Constantly Starting Up

If your system is constantly running, especially if it’s not producing much cool air, then you likely have a problem. It could be a problem that’s easy to rectify with a Precision tune-up, but it could also be an indicator that your AC has to work extra to cool your home and that means wasted energy and wasted money.

Strange Noise

If your air conditioning system starts creating strange noises, there could be a problem. Higher pitched noises may mean trouble with one of the motors. Rattling noises might signal a part has come loose. Don’t chance it. Call a professional to inspect it and decide if it’s a problem worth repairing or if it will continue to be an ongoing issue.

Signs of Aging

Just like everything (and everyone), the more something has aged, the weaker it usually gets. Is your air conditioner not cooling as well as it did five years ago? Are certain rooms colder or hotter than others? Is it taking more time to get to a cool and comfortable temperature? All of these are usual signals of an aging air conditioner. If your air conditioner is floundering and is getting close to or over 10 years in age, call Niagara Home Services by Enercare and 289-273-2229 for a no-charge in-home estimate and find out about our current promotions on energy-efficient systems.