Signs You Need To Replace Your Air Conditioning

It’s that time of year again. You’re starting to crank up the air conditioner, and suddenly you remember – last summer, you were sweating bullets because your AC unit couldn’t keep up! It’s time to start thinking about whether you need to replace your AC unit before next summer. Here are some signs that it might be time, provided by Sunset Heating & Cooling, who provide air conditioning replacement in Portland OR.

1. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing

One of the first signs that your air conditioning unit may need to be replaced is an increase in your energy bills. If you notice that your energy bills are gradually increasing, even when you haven’t been using your AC unit more than usual, it could be a sign that your unit is no longer as efficient as it once was.

2. Your AC Unit Is More Than 10 Years Old

Another sign that you may need to replace your air conditioning unit is its age. Most AC units have a lifespan of about 10-15 years. So, if your unit is approaching or has surpassed the 10-year mark, it may be time to start thinking about replacing it.

3. You’re Hearing Strange Noises

If you start to hear strange noises coming from your air conditioning unit, it’s definitely a sign that something is wrong. Common AC problems like a loose fan belt or compressor issue can cause loud, persistent noises. And while these problems can sometimes be fixed, they often indicate that the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and will need to be replaced soon.

4. The Airflow From Your Vents Is Weak

Another sign that you may need a new air conditioning unit is weak airflow from your vents. If you notice that the airflow from your vents is weaker than it used to be, it could be a sign of an issue with the compressor or blower fan. Additionally, if certain rooms in your home are not getting enough cool air, it could be due to ductwork issues, which need to be addressed.

5. You’re AC Unit Is Leaking Fluids

If you notice any fluids leaking from your air conditioning unit, it’s a cause for concern. In most cases, this indicates that there is a Freon leak, which can be dangerous if not addressed immediately by a professional.

6. The Temperature In Your Home Isn’t Consistent

Another sign that you may need to replace your air conditioner is inconsistent temperatures in your home. If certain rooms are too hot or too cold, it could be due to an issue with the thermostat or ductwork. However, if the temperature inconsistency persists even after adjusting the thermostat and checking for ductwork issues, it’s likely due to an issue with the AC unit itself and will require replacement.

7. You’ve Had Multiple Repairs In Recent Years

If you’ve had to call for repairs multiple times in recent years, it’s a sign that something is wrong with your air conditioner. In most cases, frequent repairs indicate that the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced entirely.

8. The Cost Of Repairs Outweighs The Cost Of Replacement

Finally, one of the clearest signs that you need to replace your air conditioner is when the cost of repairs starts to outweigh the cost of replacement. In other words, if repairing your current AC unit will cost more than simply buying a new one, then it’s probably time for a replacement. Of course, this decision should always be made in consultation with a professional HVAC technician.

If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it may be time to start thinking about replacing your AC unit. In this blog post, we’ve outlined some of the most common signs that indicate an AC unit needs to be replaced. Keep in mind that these are just guidelines and that you should always consult a professional HVAC technician before deciding on a replacement.