How to Know When Your AC Needs to be Replaced

August 29, 2016

Autumn is coming soon and your AC has made it through another cooling season. But making it through this summer doesn’t mean it will keep its cool the next time temperatures soar. Here are a few signs that your AC may be on its last summer.

Not keeping your cool

Your AC system is designed to keep you cool and comfortable on the warmest days, so if your system is not keeping your family cool (and you’re unable to get comfortable) there’s possibly a problem. There are many situations where your AC might stop cooling – compressor failure, a wrong calibrated thermostat, or a refrigerant leak. Once you’ve determined the problem, it may be ideal to just let go of your little engine that could, and move on to a newer, more energy-efficient air conditioning system – hopefully one that keeps your home cool.

More Frequent Repairs

If you’re needing AC repairs every cooling season, it may be time to face facts and purchase a new one. Frequent air conditioner repairs are a good signal that your equipment is starting to breakdown and you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of summer with a blistering hot home.

Rise in Energy Bills

If you see a jump in your HVAC bills that could be a signal that something is amiss. If your air conditioning system is working extreme overtime, it could cause you to work overtime to afford it, and it might be a better option for you to invest in a more energy-efficient air conditioner that can easily lessen your peak season cooling payments.

Drop in Air Flow

If your air flow isn’t as strong as it used to be, it could be a sign that your air conditioning system is on its last leg. Take a look at your home’s air filters to make sure they do not require replacing and, if not, call a professional to help determine the problem.

Constantly Kicking On

If your system is always running, especially if it’s not producing much cool air, then you likely 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 AC has to work more to cool your home and that means wasted energy and wasted money.

Odd Noise

If your air conditioner starts creating unusual noises, there may be a problem. Higher pitched noises might mean an issue with one of the motors. Rattling noises could indicate a part is loose. Don’t take any chances. Call an expert to take a look and determine if it’s a complication worth repairing or if it will always be an ongoing issue.

Signs of Aging

Just like everything (and everyone), the older something gets, the weaker it usually gets. Is your air conditioner not cooling as well as it did a few years ago? Are some rooms colder or hotter than others? Is it taking a larger amount of time to get to a cool and comfortable temperature? These are all usual indicators of an aging system. If your system is having a hard time and is nearing or over 10 years in age, call Finch Air Conditioning & Heating and 281-407-9478 for a complimentary in-home estimate and learn about our current discounts on energy-efficient air conditioning systems.