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Like every other appliance in your home, the central air conditioning system has a lifespan. But when should you really replace your unit?
The signs are evident at times, but may also be hard to tell whether your unit needs repair or replacing. Whether your AC unit stops working well due to age or you are looking for an upgrade, the list below would assist you to decide when to replace your home central air conditioning system.
Age
The lifespan of many air conditioning systems is ten to fifteen years. If your system is within this age range, it is surely time to plan and schedule for a replacement as soon as possible. When you decide to go for a new system, consider looking for a system that has the Energy Star label, which is made to meet the greatest energy efficiency standards, saving up to 20% on your utility bills.
Many Costly Repairs
As the central AC unit ages, a different part of the physical unit can start breaking down, and may need frequent service calls. With time, repair bills may add up, and something that started out as a minor issue can escalate to a greater one. If your AC seems to be breaking down frequently, it may be time to get a replacement for your system.
System Runs More Often
The other sign that you require a new AC unit is inefficiency. This may range from your unit running too long without cooling the room to a noticeable and unexplained rise on your utility bills. Insulation issues, ductwork or general equipment failure cause the problem.
Strange, Loud Sounds
Does it feel like your system has come to life? This may be a sign that your duct unit is not compatible with the cooling system, or the indoor coil is clogged. If the ductwork is not of the appropriate size for your system, your AC will not work well, and a professional may suggest that the entire system is replaced.
An Increase in Humidity
Humidity outside the house is one thing, but when the humidity begins to rise in your home, you may have numerous problems. Your AC unit may not be of the appropriate size for your home, meaning that it would not be able to cool your home properly. This may result in the interior area feeling too humid, particularly when the external temperature rises.
An Increase in Amount of Dust
Your central AC is made to filter out dust or harmful air particles within your home. If you begin to notice too much dust in your home, there might be leaks in your ductwork or the system may be starting to fail.
Outdated Air Conditioning System
Due to technological advances, many home appliances are getting great improvements. The same applies to the central air conditioning units. Newer advances like the programmable thermostats can guarantee that your home runs efficiently, while consequently saving you on your utility cost. Upgrading for convenience, ease of use and energy efficiency are all great reasons for replacing your system when you experience the issues expressed above.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you are maximizing the use of your AC units. For other tips like these, be sure to check out our other Air Repair Pros articles!
