In most cases, you can expect a new air conditioning unit to last 10 to 15 years before replacing it makes sense. That said, there are a variety of factors that go into how long any given AC unit will last. A few of these factors include its build quality, how often it’s used, and the climate to which it’s exposed.
It’s easy to see that it’s time to replace your AC when it stops working altogether, but total breakdowns rarely occur without warning. In fact, there are several signs that an air conditioner unit may be on its last legs before it ever truly gives up the ghost.
Keep reading to learn more about the signs of a failing AC unit that most homeowners miss. Then, get in touch with our pros at Bay Heating & Air Conditioning who can help with a repair or total replacement of your system.
1. Your AC Runs Without Cold Air
There can be many reasons why your AC is running without producing cold air. Some of these reasons, such as constant refrigerant leaking or a broken compressor, may indicate issues with the unit’s build quality or hint at irreparable damage somewhere else in the device.
2. Poor Airflow
Your AC may be producing cold air, but that might not matter if very little of it actually gets inside your home. Poor airflow can be caused by manageable problems such as dirty air filters and blockages, but your AC’s compressor may be failing or there’s a problem with the entire unit’s circuitry that prevents enough power to generate the needed airflow.
If your unit is relatively new, check the manufacturer’s warranty because this can be a sign of a defect. If your unit is between 10 and 15 years old, or older, chances are its service life is ending and replacement is necessary.
3. Unusual Sounds & Odors
Your air conditioner is a machine with all kinds of moving parts. If you notice strange sounds such as bangs, clangs, clicks, hums, or anything else you don’t recognize, this can be a sign of a mechanical or electrical problem with your AC system. The same can be said for foul odors near your unit that you don’t recognize.
Without proper maintenance, your AC unit is at risk of a mechanical failure well before it reaches the end of its anticipated lifespan. This is why you should contact an experienced technician to inspect your AC as soon as you recognize strange sounds and/or odors. Doing so can help you get an important repair that may prevent a premature replacement.
4. You’re Always Calling for Repairs
Regardless of how old your AC system is, a clear sign that you may need replacement is when you’re always calling a technician out for a repair. If repeated visits don’t solve the same problem for longer than a year, or if new problems always seem to come up, you should seriously consider replacing your air conditioner unit.
Contact Us for AC Solutions
Whether you’re certain you need to replace your AC system or want to have an expert give you advice on this issue, you can always turn to Bay Heating & Air Conditioning for help.
Our experienced technicians understand AC units on a fundamental level and can offer long-lasting solutions to any problem. Rest assured that we can provide the information and services you need to make the best decisions for your home and family.
For replacement, repair, or maintenance on your AC system, contact Bay Heating & Air Conditioning online today.