“Nothing lasts forever.” This old adage is sad but true. Eventually, the air conditioner you’ve come to rely on will reach the end of its lifespan and require replacement. However, a new air conditioner can be a big investment, so you probably don’t want to buy one earlier than you need to. You also don’t want to wait too long to buy one for the sake of your comfort and health. So, how do you know when it’s the right time for air conditioner replacement?
If you’re not sure whether you need air conditioner replacement or simply a system tune-up, we have a few ideas for you to consider:
- Ask a professional. One of the best ways to find out whether you need air conditioner replacement is to call an HVAC technician who can check out your system and let you know their professional opinion. They have the right skills to inspect your air conditioner and give you an accurate assessment.
- Find out how long your unit is supposed to last. Age is an important factor if you’re trying to determine whether you need air conditioner replacement. For instance, if your model is supposed to last 10 to 15 years, an 11-year-old unit might need to be upgraded soon.
- Look for signs of problems or failure. A malfunctioning unit may be a sign you need replacement. Look for things like leaks, a lack of airflow, warm air, thermostat problems, strange noises, odours, and rising energy bills before seeking a professional’s opinion.
- Note how often your unit needs service. If you’ve been calling your technician for repairs more frequently than you should have to, it may not be worth it to keep your current unit around. Replacement may make more sense for your situation and your wallet.