An air conditioning unit is one of the main systems you use to stay comfortable in your house. When you’re used to your system running fine for a while, it can be easy to completely forget that all air conditioners need to be replaced eventually. While the best ACs out there are made to last a long time, it’s common for small things to happen that make replacing the system more cost-effective.
Issues like breakdowns and repairs, higher energy bills and weird noises may be more common when your AC health is starting to decline. While our team at Surgi’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has seen more common signs that indicate replacement, there are some uncommon signs as well. If your system is experiencing any of these five secret signs, you may require an AC replacement.
Age
Age may seem like an obvious sign of deterioration, but it can still be tricky to recognize that age is the underlying source of the problem! Many homeowners move into homes and inherit their HVAC systems. It’s common to assume that since the air conditioner seems to be working fine, it’s good to go for a while. However, keeping a close eye on performance will reveal if the system is actually providing efficient cooling.
On average, an AC unit can last for about 10 years. If you live in a climate that tends to be more hot and humid, like here in Louisiana, it could be a shorter lifespan. It’s smart to know the age of your system so you can be prepared for anything that may come your way due to age.
R-22 Coolant
R-22 was the refrigerant liquid that was used in the cooling process inside the unit. In 2010, the federal government placed restrictions on R-22, saying that it must be eliminated from use in all cooling systems by 2020. The majority of new homes are equipped with AC units that run with R-410A — if you have a unit that uses R-22, you may need to get the system replaced.
The stock that exists for R-22 is on a constant decline. Since it is no longer being produced, the probability of you finding R-22 for your older system is slim. If your system begins to experience problems coming from the coolant area, it may be best to replace your system with a more updated version.
Humidity Problems
In places like New Orleans, humidity can be one of the worst parts of the warmer months. One of the major components of your AC unit is moisture removal. Your unit is designed to naturally remove moisture from the air to ensure your home isn’t too humid. If you begin to realize that your home is more humid than it should be with the AC on, it’s time to get it checked out.
Indoor Air Quality Issues
Here at Surgi’s, our top priority is your well-being. Many people may not realize how much the quality of your HVAC system can have on your overall health. Poor indoor air quality can be a symptom of an older system. Some signs of poor indoor air quality include:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Trouble breathing
- Congestion
- Increased allergies
One key thing to remember is that your AC system is meant to cool AND filter the air flowing through your home. There are filters in your unit to stop pollutants and allergens from circulating in your home. If those filters aren’t working correctly, it could greatly affect your health.
Inconsistent Cooling
An AC system that requires repairs or is declining could also provide inconsistent cooling to your home. Older units tend to be more inconsistent due to age and become less effective at doing their job. It’s important to pay attention to the efficiency of your system to ensure you’re getting the most out of the energy you’re paying for. Doing this will help you to make sure you are getting the consistent cooling your home deserves and not wasting money on inadequate performance!
New Orleans AC Replacement
If you’re at the point where you’re questioning, “Is my AC dying?” it may be time for a replacement. At Surgi’s Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we care about making sure your system is right for you and the needs of your home. If your system is not cooling your home the way you need, contact us to help you take care of it!
