Making the choice to replace your air conditioner (A/C) isn’t always an easy or obvious one. If you wait too long, it might break down in the middle of the scorching summer day, leaving you defenseless against the heat. Here are some ways to tell if your A/C needs replacement.
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It’s getting old. Just like with any machine, A/Cs stop working as well when they get older. Most A/Cs that have had regular maintenance can work effectively for about 12 to 15 years, which can vary based on usage conditions and your home environment. Once your A/C approaches this range, spend some time evaluating if it’s performing as well as it needs to be.
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Repairs seem frequent. There is almost nothing more frustrating, inconvenient and expensive than an A/C that keeps breaking down. If you’re facing multiple big repair bills in a short time period, it’s probably time to start thinking about replacing your A/C. A new cooling system will run smoothly and should save you money in the long run with lower operating costs.
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Warning signs of big problems. Major breakdowns typically don’t happen all at once, but over time instead. Inspect your A/C, especially the outdoor condensing unit for signs of deterioration. Rust and damage are signs that you should have a consultant examine the system for larger issues.
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Rising energy bills. As A/Cs age, their performance declines. While some degradation is acceptable, a point will come when the math just doesn’t make sense. Running your A/C excessively to achieve comfort will result in high energy bills. A new unit will be much more efficient, and the money you save on energy bills will help it pay for itself over time.
If you’re not sure if your Fresno area home’s A/C needs replacement, please contact us at Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning for an expert opinion.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Fresno, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/C replacements and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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