4 Warning Signs It’s Time for AC Replacement
Learn the top warning signs that it’s time for air conditioner replacement – either immediately or in the near future.
By Anne Fonda
We’ve come to depend on our home’s central air conditioning system to keep us comfortable when temperatures rise. But just like with every other piece of mechanical equipment or piece of electronics, eventually, your air conditioner will need to be replaced.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the signs that you may want to start planning for AC system replacement.
Sign #1: Your central AC unit is 15+ years old
As an air conditioner ages, it can become less efficient and more prone to breaking down. Years of wear and tear eventually take their toll. But old age is not a reason to replace an AC unit if it is working well and receives regular AC maintenance.
In general, a well-maintained air conditioner will last 15-20 years. We’ve heard of air conditioners in northern states lasting 30 years because they are less frequently used. Similarly, an AC unit in Florida or Texas that runs most of the year may not last as long. In addition, bargain brands may not last as long as premium brands like Trane.
But old age combined with some of the following signs means you should start looking into AC unit replacement.
Insert an internal image from the library of a tech working on an outdoor unit.
Sign #2: AC repairs are needed more often and are getting more expensive
Do you know your HVAC technician by name? If you have needed to repair your air conditioner one or two times a year and the repairs are getting more expensive, it might be time to stop pouring money into a failing system and replace your AC unit.
The cost of AC repairs will depend on the part or parts that need to be replaced, the age of your system, and the type of refrigerant it uses.
For example, AC capacitor replacement will cost a lot less than replacing the compressor or condenser coil. Likewise, if your air conditioner was manufactured before 2010 and uses R-22 refrigerant, a refrigerant recharge could cost you an arm and a leg.
Use our Repair or Replace Guide to help you decide whether AC repair or air conditioning replacement is the most cost-effective choice.
Sign #3: Your energy bills have skyrocketed
If your cooling bill has gone up year over year without a rate increase or drastic change in temperatures, your air conditioning system is showing it’s losing efficiency. As a central air conditioner experiences years of wear and tear, it has to work harder to reach the set temperature. That means it uses more energy this year to accomplish the same task.
While a replacement air conditioner will cost more upfront, if you choose a more energy-efficient system, you should see energy cost savings in the long run.
Sign #4: Your comfort level has decreased
If your AC is not cooling as well as it used to, old age or wear and tear may be to blame. But so could a dirty filter. Check the filter and change it if it’s dirty. Schedule an AC tune-up before deciding you need a replacement air conditioner.
If the HVAC professional doesn’t find any serious issues and your air conditioner is approaching its life expectancy, you may want to start researching replacing the unit.
Shouldn’t I just run my AC until it dies?
You could, but it might not be the best thing for your comfort or your wallet. As discussed, an aging and inefficient air conditioner struggles to cool your entire home. Some rooms may be hotter than others, or the unit may not dehumidify the air as well as it used to, leading to decreased comfort and decreased indoor air quality (IAQ).
As the system works harder, it costs you more money than a newer, more efficient system would. If you read some of the reviews for our most energy-efficient air conditioner, you’ll see that homeowners are delighted with their increased comfort and savings on their energy bills.
What is bothering you about your home’s air conditioning? Hot and cold spots? Poor humidity control? Higher energy bills? Frequent repairs? If you’re ready to replace your air conditioner, think about the problems you want to fix with a new air conditioning unit.
Work with the HVAC experts
If your old air conditioner isn’t cooling your house as it should, or you’re fed up with more and more frequent air conditioning repairs, it’s time for an upgrade. Contact your local Trane Comfort Specialist to discuss your options. Be sure to ask about tax credits and rebates.
Today’s HVAC systems are much more efficient than older systems, providing you with consistent comfort while potentially lowering your utility bills.
Anne Fonda, Content Writer
A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.
She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.
When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.
Expert review by Mark Woodruff, Senior Product Manager, Ducted Outdoor
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