During the hot and humid summer days, we count on our air conditioner units to keep us cool and comfortable. But have you ever thought about how long these systems will last in our unique climate?
Dunn Heating and Air Conditioning are here to walk you through the intricacies of air conditioners and their service life, so you can get a better idea about how to properly maintain them over the years for long-term comfort and savings. Therefore, if you want to learn more about cooling systems and how long they last, keep reading!
How do I know when my AC needs replacing?
Knowing the symptoms of a malfunctioning air conditioner system is critical for ensuring that you are never without an operational unit during the summer months. Nonetheless, not all homeowners are aware of what to search for when deciding whether or not something is wrong in the first place. As a result, our team of comfort advisors has compiled a list of typical signs you should be aware of that may indicate it's time to contact an experienced HVAC company, like Dunn Heating and Air Conditioning, for assistance.
Here is a closer look at these signs in more detail below:
- Extreme humidity: Not only do air conditioning systems keep you cool, but they can also remove moisture from the air. If you detect greater levels of humidity or a persistent humid feeling throughout your home, the air conditioner may be having trouble removing the moisture due to a malfunction within the system.
- Bad smells: An ongoing uncomfortable smell when the air conditioning is switched on could be a sign of mould development within the appliance, which can be difficult and costly to remove.
- Short cycling: If the air conditioning system frequently turns on and off, it may indicate that it is underutilized or failing entirely, resulting in energy wastage and premature damage.
- Failures and breakdowns on an ongoing basis: If the cooling system in your home requires frequent repairing, it may be nearing the end of its intended lifespan. Investing in regular upkeep may end up costing more in the end than purchasing a brand-new unit.
- Reduced cooling capacity: If you observe that your air conditioner isn't cooling your residence as well as it used to, or if some parts of your home are consistently warmer compared to others, this can be a sign of a faulty cooling system.
- Unusual noises: Weird noises from your cooling system could indicate mechanical problems or out-of-date parts that need to be replaced.
- AC lifespan: Air conditioners typically have a service life of 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced. As a result, if your air conditioner is nearing or has passed this limit, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new model instead of continuing to repair the one you currently have.
- Increased energy costs: As air conditioning units age, their efficiency decreases, resulting in increased energy use and higher utility bills. If your cooling costs have been rising, investing in an energy-efficient air conditioner can save you money in the long run.
Should I replace my 20-year-old air conditioner?
The decision to replace a 20-year-old cooling system is influenced by a number of variables, such as the unit's current condition, efficiency, repair history, and what you want and need.
Here are some things to think about to help you decide:
- Cost-effectiveness: Older cooling systems, particularly those over 15 years old, use more energy than newer models. Upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient unit can result in considerable energy savings and lower utility expenses.
- Repair history: Consider the number of times and cost of recent repairs. If your 20-year-old cooling system has been breaking down frequently and necessitating expensive fixes, it may be cheaper to swap it with a new unit that will likely require less maintenance.
- Performance: Determine how effectively your current cooling system cools your home. If It’s having trouble keeping your home cool or if you've noticed inconsistent cooling, an upgrade may be better.
- Long-term cost: While buying a new air conditioner necessitates an initial investment, it can result in savings in the long run due to their increased efficiency and lower repair costs.
- Rebates and incentives: Look into any available incentives, refunds, or financing options for upgrading to a more energy-efficient cooling system. These can make the replacement less expensive.
If your 20-year-old air conditioning unit continues to function efficiently, sufficiently cools your home, and hasn't needed regular repairs, you may want to keep it a little longer. However, it is critical that you have it examined and serviced on a regular basis by an experienced HVAC professional so that it continues to perform well.
If, on the other hand, your air conditioner displays signs of decreased efficiency, frequent problems, or excessive utility bills, it's time to look into replacement options. An HVAC professional like the ones at Dunn Heating and Air Conditioning can help you in assessing the condition of your present system and guiding you in choosing the best replacement unit that suits your cooling preferences and budget.
What is the life expectancy of an outdoor air conditioner?
While an outdoor air conditioner has a typical service life of 10 to 15 years, it is critical to monitor its performance on a regular basis, listen for unusual sounds, and pay attention to any fluctuations in your home's cooling efficiency. Ultimately, if you want to extend the lifespan of your air conditioning system, regular maintenance and prompt repairs are the way to go. At the same time, if your cooling system is nearing the end of its expected lifespan and causing problems, consulting with an HVAC professional can help you figure out if it's time for an upgrade and guide you in choosing a new unit that meets your needs.
Are you thinking of installing a new AC unit in your home? Book a consultation with Dunn Heating and Air Conditioning today!
