Sealing Up Damaged Ventilation Lines

It's About Time: 4 Signs You're Going To Need A New Air Conditioner

If you've had your air conditioner for a while, it might be time to start thinking about a new one.  Even under the best conditions, most air conditioning units only last about 10–15 years. Once your air conditioner starts to go out, you might be able to squeeze a few more years out of it, but that might require constant care from a service technician. Unfortunately, that could leave you faced with an emergency situation if your air conditioner decides to die in the middle of the summer. Luckily, there is a way to avoid being faced with an emergency replacement situation. If you notice any of the following signs, it's time to start planning for a new air conditioner.

Hot Spots in Your Home

When you turn your air conditioner on, you should feel cold air coming through all the vents in your home. If you don't – or there's limited airflow – you've got a problem that will require professional attention. Limited airflow either means that your air conditioner doesn't have enough power to push cold air through your entire home, or that your air ducts are damaged.

Unusual Noises from Your AC

When your air conditioner is working properly, you should hear a quiet hum coming from the unit. If you're hearing knocks, pings, or other unusual noises, it's time to call in the professionals. Unusual noises from the air conditioner are a sure sign that your unit is on its last legs.

AC Not Cycling Properly

If your air conditioner is having trouble making it through a full cycle – or it's not turning on at all – it's telling you that it has a problem. Turn your air conditioner on and wait for it to cool your home to the programmed temperature. If the unit turns off and on continually, fails to turn on altogether, or runs for a few seconds before shutting off permanently, your unit is in the process of breaking down for the last time.

Thermostat is Hot

Even though your thermostat is in continuous operational mode, it should remain cool. If you're feeling heat radiating from the thermostat, or the wall that the thermostat is installed on is hot to the touch when the air conditioner is running, turn the unit off and call a service technician as soon as possible. This is a sign that the air conditioner is working overtime, which is overheating the thermostat.

If your air conditioner is getting up there in years, it's time to consider a replacement. If you've experienced any of the signs described here, contact an air conditioning expert like Smedley & Associates.


Share