Dutch Enterprises - How to Know When to Replace the AC

AC installation contractors in Cape Girardeau, MO offer insights about upgrading the air conditioner.

Three Signs That It’s Time for AC Replacement

Losing an air conditioner in the middle of summer isn’t a fun situation. With peaking temperatures and high humidity, going without an air conditioner is unacceptable. That’s why springtime is the best time to consider AC replacement. By getting the air conditioner upgraded during the cooler season, one can avoid much of the discomfort of losing the AC.

This spring, pay attention to the signs and see if it’s time to replace the AC. This article is a quick guide from local AC installation gurus that can guide homeowners through the process of deciding to upgrade the air conditioner.

Strange Sounds and Odors

One of the first indicators that it is time to consider an AC replacement is the presence of certain odors, particularly dusty or musty odors. Older AC units can have years of dust buildup present on the coils and blowers inside the unit. This buildup can taint all of the air it touches and constantly distributes bad odors around the home. In normal cases, AC maintenance and filter changes could remove the odors, but eventually, they are there to stay, and it is better to replace the AC.

Another sign that is noticed early on is strange sounds. An unusual sound accompanies nearly every mechanical problem that happens in an AC. Normal sounds that indicate problems include:

Hissing sounds
Grinding
Squealing
Rattling
Banging

After too many repairs, AC replacement will be more cost-effective than making constant repairs.

Spiking Energy Bills

Every year that an air conditioner is in service, it will lose efficiency. Estimates say that about 1-2% efficiency is lost every year that the air conditioner operates. While this may not seem like much year over year, once an air conditioner is 20 years old, it could’ve lost as much as half of its efficiency.

Energy costs can be hard to track since energy prices have risen. But one should not underestimate the cost of operating an old air conditioner. With energy costs continuing to rise, starting over with a new air conditioner to restore lost cooling power can make financial sense. To add to the savings, homeowners should consider replacing their current inefficient air conditioner with an energy-efficient AC. By upgrading now, homeowners can offset the cost with monthly savings.

Stay Alert for Other Signs

High bills and new, unusual noises are great for predicting when an air conditioner will need to be replaced, but other signs can also be helpful. Look for things like:

Age: Air conditioners last for about 20 years. If an AC is nearing this age, replacing the unit before it quits can prevent an uncomfortable summer AC outage.
Air Quality: Old air conditioners have trouble regulating humidity. The result is a house that is warm and damp. New air conditioners will lower humidity levels and make the home more comfortable by keeping the air drier.
Inconsistent Cooling: Old AC units can’t distribute air efficiently. The result can be temperature swings and hot and cold spots. New ACs restore lost cooling power through better air distribution.

About Dutch Enterprises

Dutch Enterprises has 60 years of experience keeping customers comfortable. Their award-winning service is available to residential and commercial customers. Call today for fast AC service in Cape Girardeau, MO.