When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement
Deciding to replace an air conditioner is one of the bigger decisions a homeowner will make. Air conditioner replacement is expensive, but it also means that the home will likely be without climate control for a day or two. Also, choosing a new AC means the equipment will be in service for the next two decades. With all of these things to consider, timing is everything.
Choosing the right time for air conditioner replacement will help ease the stress of the process. To help owners choose the right time, they should notice certain signs indicating their current AC is about to fail. Here are the top three signs that AC replacement is probably a better investment than repairs.
The House Is Still Warm
The first sign that a new AC installation is imminent is that the house is still warm, even with the air conditioner running. Usually, this is the first thing people notice because the feelings of being hot and uncomfortable are immediate. When digging deeper into this problem, it usually stems from poor airflow or warm air from the vents.
The first cause is likely related to a blower motor that can’t keep up anymore. In some cases, damaged ductwork can also cause weak airflow. In the case of warm air coming from the vents, a refrigerant leak is the likely cause. Instead of repairing the leak, which is usually tricky, technicians will most likely recommend AC replacement.
Energy Bills are Out of Control
Air conditioners are very expensive to run during the summer, but they get even more costly as they age. Often, bills will slowly climb, and owners will hardly recognize the problem. Eventually, most homeowners will notice the trend or a sudden spike and start asking questions. When this happens, it is a sign that the air conditioner is no longer efficient. This can come from problems like:
- Air leaks
- Poor insulation
- Low refrigerant
- Dirty coils
- Worn-out mechanical parts
If multiple problems are causing energy bills to skyrocket, AC replacement is the easiest and cheapest way to handle them all at once, restoring lost efficiency to the home for cheaper bills.
New Noises or Foul Odors
The final signs that AC replacement may be needed are unusual noises and bad smells. These can stem from things like unlubricated and damaged parts or electrical problems. Any time something is out of the ordinary regarding smells or sounds, it can be a good indication of the issues. If problems have progressed this far, they are likely deeply affecting the AC, and replacement may be the best option.
While paying for AC replacement and waiting for the installation process can be a pain, it usually ends up being the right call. When these signs are noticed, everyone in the home is probably already miserable because of the lack of performance. As soon as these signs are noticed, homeowners should start shopping around to reduce the worry about the air conditioner replacement process.
About Atlas Home Service
Atlas Home Service is a family-owned AC contractor that specializes in home comfort. Their knowledgeable staff can help anyone with the air conditioner installation process. Call today for HVAC service in Alexandria, LA.
