When Should You Replace Your Air Conditioning System?
The weather is going to start warming up soon, and making sure that your air conditioner is ready for the summer heat is important. Like any home appliance, your AC system will not last forever. Knowing when to replace it can help you avoid spending more money than you should on repairs and energy bills, and will help you get ahead of any problems.
I have been working in the area for 20+ years, replacing and repairing air conditioners and HVAC systems. I’ve seen some that have been well maintained and replaced after 20+ years, and some that have barely been serviced and fail years prematurely.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the reasons you should replace your AC, and what the best time of year to replace your AC is. If you want to speak to an expert, give us a call at (630) 504-8688, or contact us online!
Common Reasons You Should Replace Your AC
We’ve replaced air conditioning systems all over the Fox River Valley, and have seen all the signs that will tell you when you should replace it. From high energy bills to weaker cooling, we can assess any AC, and determine whether it needs replacing, or simply a regular service.
Your Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling
The most obvious sign that it’s time to replace your AC is when it fails to cool your home effectively. If your system is running but your home remains warm or has uneven cooling, there could be a serious problem such as a failing compressor, low refrigerant levels, or aging components that make replacement a better option than a repair.
You could also simply need a service. Maybe your filter needs to be replaced, or the inner components need to be cleaned. Either way, make sure that you have a professional take a look at your system. The worst case would be your AC costing you money to run while your home can’t stay cool.
Your System Is Breaking Down Frequently
If your cooling system is breaking down frequently, you may want to consider a replacement. Frequent breakdowns not only cause inconvenience and can also end up costing you more money than it should in the long run.
Consider the cost of the repair, and how frequently repairs are needed. If the repair needed is very expensive, you should get an estimate for a new cooling system. If you find yourself needing a repair every season, or more than once in a season, it’s probably time to start looking for a replacement.
Your Energy Bills Are Way Too High
An inefficient AC system can drive up your energy costs significantly. If your electricity bills have been consistently increasing despite normal usage, your air conditioner may be working harder than it should to maintain a comfortable temperature. This can happen after your AC has been getting older, and simply deteriorating over time. The best way to extend the life of your cooling system and retain energy efficiently is to schedule regular maintenance. This keeps the system clean and operating efficiently.
If your system is simply ready to be replaced, upgrading to a new, energy-efficient system can help lower your energy costs and improve the cooling in your home.
We recommend comparing your energy bill to previous years, and also your neighbors’ energy usage. Most energy providers will show you a comparison of your energy usage vs the people in your neighborhood. If your energy use is significantly higher, your HVAC system could be to blame.
Your AC Is Old
Air conditioning units usually last between 12 and 15 years. As a rule of being cautious, once the system gets to 10 years old, it may be time to start considering a replacement. Older units tend to lose efficiency, require more repairs, and may use outdated refrigerants that are being phased out.
If the system is 12+ years old and working well, there’s no need to replace it! Just remember to schedule annual maintenance. If you run into a breakdown or some sort of problem, that’s when you should schedule a free estimate for a cooling replacement.
When Is The Best Time Of Year To Replace Your AC?
For most people, the spring is the best time of year to replace the air conditioning system. While you can replace your AC at any time, certain times of the year offer more advantages in terms of cost and convenience.
Replacing Your AC Before It’s Too Hot Out
Spring and fall are typically the best times to replace your AC system. Obviously in the fall, people are focused on heating, but for air conditioning, the spring is the most popular time to replace it. During these seasons, HVAC companies tend to be less busy, as opposed to the summer and winter when the weather is harsher. This means you’ll have more flexibility in scheduling an installation.
The other reason it’s better to replace the system while it’s not too hot is the comfort levels of your home. Instead of replacing your HVAC system during the middle of the summer and potentially going days without cooling, you have your AC replaced in the spring while the weather is still mild and manageable.
Replacing Your AC While There Are Rebates And Savings Available
Another reason that replacing the system in the offseason are the savings available. Lots of energy companies and manufacturers will offer discounts in the form of rebates and specials that take some money off the cost of energy efficient HVAC equipment. During the times of year like the middle of summer when people are buying systems more often, these discounts aren’t usually as regularly available.
Replacing Your Air Conditioner In Elgin, IL
If you’re in Elgin, IL, and are considering replacing your air conditioning system, give Compass Heating and Air a call! We can provide expert guidance, assess your home, and give you options for a new cooling system that fits your situation. We understand the climate and can recommend the best energy-efficient system for your home. Give us a call at (630) 504-8688, or contact us online!