Is It Time To Replace Your AC System?

Your home's air conditioning system is a major investment, so it makes sense to fix problems as they come up and attempt to keep it operating for as long as possible. Unfortunately, mechanical systems will all eventually fail, and the components of your air conditioning system are no different. Knowing when it is time to fully replace the system can potentially save you money, as an entirely new system will both provide greater overall efficiency and lower maintenance costs going forward. If you think that your AC system might be approaching its end of life, these basic signs can help you to decide if a replacement is in order.

Your Energy Bills Are Getting Progressively Higher

Monitoring your energy bills over the warm summer months is important not only to help keep your budget under control but also to gauge the state of your air conditioning system. As your AC ages, the compressor begins to work less efficiently. This can manifest in a number of noticeable symptoms, but one of the most obvious will be a steady rise in your utility bills. If your electricity bill seems to be climbing even though you have changed nothing about your AC habits, then your system may be getting ready to give up.

Keep in mind, however, that a number of minor problems can cause your AC system to run less efficiently as well. Your best bet if you suspect an AC problem to be at the core of your electricity bills is to have a qualified professional check your system for problems and properly evaluate it.

You've Been Making Constant Repairs

The average lifespan of a central AC system is about 10-12 years. Beyond this point, you can expect increased maintenance costs, reduced energy efficiency, and poor cooling ability. If your AC system is older than this and you've noticed that you are routinely spending time and money on repairs, then it may be time to consider a full replacement of the outdoor unit. Often, a new outdoor unit can be fitted to an existing system, which can help to marginally reduce the cost of the installation. Once the outdoor unit is 15 years old, it may be worthwhile to consider a replacement even if you are not suffering any other symptoms, as a compressor failure is likely in the cards in the near future.

There Are Signs of Major Problems

When it comes to your home's AC system, the two most expensive items to repair are the compressor in the outdoor unit and the ductwork in your home. In the case of the compressor, the majority of the cost is the part, as this is the primary component in the condenser unit. When it comes to the ductwork, most of the cost will be labor, as problems are often the result of ducting that is undersized or leaking. In either case, these major problems are a good reason to consider a full system upgrade. Since you will already be spending a large amount of money on these repairs, it may be worth it to simply replace all of the system's older components in one single upgrade.

To learn more, contact your local air conditioning replacement service.

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