7 Signs You Know it’s Time to Replace a Home Air Conditioner

March 28, 2016

Now that spring is in the air and summer will soon be round the corner, why not take the opportunity to check that your air conditioning unit is in good working order? If it turns out you need a replacement, then you won’t be sweating it out in the sticky NJ summer months. To help you, our cooling experts have identified 7 practical signs to indicate that it might be time for a change.

Replace a Home Air Conditioner- Watch Out For These Signs

1. Your Electricity Bills Are Unusually High

If this is the case, it may be a result of your air conditioning system overworking. Try cleaning the air vents and replacing the filters (which should be a regular habit in any case), and then check for any lumps or knots in the condensing coil. Carrying out an energy audit can also help to identify where any leaks need to be plugged.

It’s Blowing Inconsistent Temperatures or Hot Air

If the unit doesn’t cool, it simply isn’t doing its job, and you will become aware of the resulting humidity fairly quickly. Again, inspect the filters, valves, condensation drains and coils for airflow obstructions and dirt.

3. Your Unit Is Noisy

A fully functioning air conditioning system should operate almost silently. Rattling, buzzing or ticking should be cause for concern and could indicate serious problems with your unit’s internal operational mechanisms.

4. It Auto Powers Off

If your unit has developed a tendency to switch itself off, or if you sometimes have difficulty getting it started at all, first investigate whether there may be a blown fuse….then give us a call.

5. Your Home Is Dusty

If dust seems to settle despite frenzied cleaning efforts, it may be a sign that your unit has leaky or malfunctioning ducts.

6. Your Unit Requires Repeated Repairs

Pardon what may seem obvious, but if your air conditioning system is constantly in need of mending, it’s ultimately likely to be more cost-efficient to simply replace it. This is an especially common problem with older systems.

7. Your Home Energy Yardstick Score Is Below 5

One of the causes of a low score on this useful energy comparison scale could indicate an inefficient air conditioning system.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!

To stay comfortable during the summer months, it’s vital to regularly maintain and carry out any necessary repairs to your air conditioning system. If you’ve spotted any of the telltale signs above, it may be time to part ways with your unit and invest in new one. Even if your unit appears to be in peak condition, it’s still vital to regularly clean and service it, both to optimize the unit and lengthen its lifespan, as well as to prevent potentially pricey repair work further down the road.

Air conditioning units are complex creatures. Fortunately, Lawes Heating and Cooling Company has a team of expert air conditioning technicians on hand 24/7, all year round. So if you’re unsure whether your home air conditioning system needs repair or replacement, get in touch today at (732) 741- 6302 and let us take care of you and your family’s cooling needs.

Posted in Air Conditioning