7 Telltale Signs It’s Time to Replace Your AC Unit

When Should you Replace your AC Unit?

Each year, prior to the onset of yet another summer, it’s essential to take the opportunity to make sure your air conditioner is functioning correctly. If not, you could quickly find yourself without an operating AC and your home or office at an uncomfortably warm temperature.

Before the hot weather sets in, check your unit for the seven most common symptoms that mean it might be time to replace your home’s AC system.

But first…

How long should a central air conditioner last?

Most central air conditioners last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. Of course, this depends on several factors like frequency of routine maintenance, geographical location, level of use, and type of unit or brand.

Industry standards have made it easier for homeowners to keep older units running. A 2018 HomeServe survey showed that 30% of homeowners had an AC ten years or older. Replacement parts and services are available for most home systems, so finding an HVAC technician for routine maintenance and repairs is an option for aging units.

However, there are situations where an older air conditioner isn’t worth maintaining and should be replaced as soon as possible.

How will I know when to replace an AC unit?

There are several ways to tell if an air conditioner is running inefficiently. Below are the seven most common signs that your AC may need to be replaced.

1. Weak or Warm Airflow

The air coming from your AC needs to be strong and cold enough to cool off your home. When you stand by a vent, you should be able to tell when your air conditioner is running. If you can’t, this could mean your AC is having trouble keeping up with the ambient temperature.

A warm or weak airflow could mean that the compressor is no longer functioning or that there is a blockage somewhere in your ducts. Either way, you should call a service to inspect your unit and diagnose the problem. If the air compressor is the cause, you may want to replace the entire AC as it’s more cost-effective than paying for replacement parts and labor.

2. Increased Humidity from your AC Unit

Air conditioners work by removing moisture and warm air from the home. Hot or humid areas inside the house could be another symptom of a defective AC.

Sometimes this problem can be caused by a blockage in the ducts, but it usually means your air conditioner can no longer maintain a cool temperature throughout the house. The simplest solution is to replace your AC with a more efficient and size-appropriate model.

3. Unusual Noises from your AC Unit

It’s absolutely normal to hear your air conditioner kick on and off, but your unit should never make any out-of-the-ordinary noises. If you notice any high-pitched squealing, grinding, scraping, or loud pops and bangs, you may need to have your AC inspected.

These types of noises could be created by a broken compressor, condenser coil, or blower. Even loose debris inside your AC or a low refrigerant level could cause the issue. Once you hear any abnormal noises from your air conditioner, you should call a professional to check it out.

4. Water Leaks

An air conditioner that uses refrigeration to cool the home may create condensation as it operates, though there should never be so much of it that it leaks into your home. If you notice a trickle or a pool of water coming from around your unit, it could mean a few different problems.

A clogged air filter can sometimes create a frozen evaporator coil, which then makes melting ice. Leaks can also mean the drain pan under the handler is overflowing, or the condensate drain line is blocked by debris. Any of these situations can create a leaky AC and may require a repair or even a replacement if the problem is more serious.

5. Expensive Utility Bills

It’s expected that you’ll have higher energy bills from running your AC more during hotter months, but there is a point at which it’s too expensive to keep your old unit.

Learn how to select the right AC efficiency level for your home.

Newer ACs have better energy efficiency, which means they don’t have to work as hard to control your home’s internal temperature. Even on hotter days, a new AC could end up using less energy than your old unit. While it may be a costly upgrade, a more efficient air conditioner could save you a significant amount of money over the long term.

6. Strong Odors from your Central Air Conditioner

Using your air conditioner should not create an unpleasant scent in your home. A properly running AC makes clean, neutral air without an odor. If that’s not happening, you may need to replace your unit.

Occasionally, mold or mildew can grow inside your air conditioner’s drain pan, creating a musty odor whenever the unit turns on. Cleaning the drain pan could remove the mold and smell from your home. On the other hand, if your AC smells smokey or produces a burning smell, it could mean that wires have been damaged. Electrical problems are dangerous and can create a fire hazard. You should replace your AC unit immediately if this is the case.

7. Your AC Unit Needs Frequent Repairs

Lastly, the most noticeable sign of an AC in need of replacement is one that is constantly broken. Even if each repair is minor or inexpensive, it doesn’t mean you should keep your old system. Continually calling your AC contractor for a house visit means you’re wasting money on an ineffective air conditioner.

In most cases, repairing an older AC isn’t cost-effective and only prolongs the use of an outdated unit. Newer models are more expensive, but they could require less maintenance and use less energy over time. Plus, a new air conditioner comes with a warranty so you can have peace of mind about any future issues.

How much does it cost to install central air?

AC replacement costs vary widely depending on where you live, the unit’s size, and its functionality. A large commercial unit for an office building will cost thousands of dollars more than a smaller residential air conditioner.

Although for most homeowners, a new AC installed costs between $5,000 to $8,000 in most parts of the country. Your total price will also include any labor that is required for installation or if you end up making any other changes to your home’s cooling system.

There are several ways you can pay for your new air conditioner. Most dealers offer some type of financing to their customers, which can speed up the purchasing process. You can also use a credit card for the transaction, but that might be difficult if you have a daily charge limit or high interest rates.

Homeowners can pay for their new AC unit without dipping into their personal savings by using their home’s equity to get a loan. This type of financing helps for such improvements as it can make selling your home easier down the road. Potential buyers appreciate newer appliances, especially an essential part of the HVAC system.

If you have an air conditioner over ten years old, it doesn’t mean you need to replace it immediately. You should just make sure it’s up to date on any required maintenance and monitor it for signs of inefficiency. The summer months can be hard on your AC, but by making sure it’s running correctly, you can help prevent sudden breakdowns or emergency repairs.