It’s not always easy to let stuff go. Many of us like holding on to things for as long as possible and use them until we no longer can’t. But while it’s perfectly normal to want to get every bit of use out of your purchases, this isn’t always the most practical option—especially when air conditioners are concerned.
Deciding whether to get rid of your old air conditioner or hang on to it for a little longer can be difficult. However, if your AC unit is exhibiting these signs, it should be time to make way for a brand new one:
1. More than a decade old.
If your air conditioner is already 10 – 15 years old, you might want to seriously consider upgrading to a newer model. You see, the majority of manufacturer warranties are only valid for 5 to 10 years. This means that you’ll have to pay for most pricey repairs out-of-pocket.
A brand-new air conditioner comes with a brand-new warranty. Replacing AC units when they’re too old will keep you financially protected from major breakdowns in the years to come.
2. Still uses R-22 Freon.
Countries are phasing out the use of Freon and switching to ozone-friendly refrigerants. As a result, Freon prices around the globe are rising at an astronomical rate. If your AC unit is still using R-22 Freon and requires more Freon, now would be a good time to replace it.
Investing in a new air conditioner that uses R410A refrigerant will not only be good to your pocket but to the environment as well.
3. Makes strange noises.
Is your air conditioner making grinding noises? Do you hear rattling, screeching, pounding, or other comparable noises that aren’t common in your house? One of the most common causes of a noisy AC unit is blockage due to trapped dust or debris. However, this could also be a sign of a broken compressor or a motor that needs oiling.
In most cases, you can fix AC noises yourself. But if your AC has been around for more than 10 years, the noises could be because of a much bigger problem that warrants a new AC unit.
4. Produces foul smells.
Air conditioners aren’t supposed to smell bad. So, if your air conditioner is producing some weird odor, there’s definitely a problem.
Different smells coming out of your AC could mean different things. An overpowering scent could indicate a burnt wire inside the unit, while a musty one is often a sign of mold presence in the ductwork. Regardless of the type of odor, you must have the problem diagnosed promptly as this may put your family’s health and safety at risk.
5. Increasing energy bills.
The air conditioning system is the biggest energy guzzler in most homes. Worse, they lose efficiency as they age. When an AC unit’s parts accumulate dirt and wear out, the system has to work harder – and use more power – to keep up. If you’ve been witnessing a drastic increase in your utility bills the past few months despite very little changes in your energy usage, your old air conditioner could be to blame.
Newer AC models are multiple times more energy efficient, thanks to recent breakthroughs in technology. Replacing your old unit with a new one could help you cut energy costs and save money on utility bills.
6. Poor air flow and cooling.
Are you having a hard time keeping your home cool even when the AC is turned on? Are some of your rooms too hot while the others are too cold? These issues are often caused by an overworked AC system. It could be that your air conditioner is too small or too old to serve its purpose well.
No matter the cause, you want your air conditioner to do its job. If your unit isn’t capable of keeping you and your family comfortable anymore, you’ll want to get a new one that will.
7. Frequent expensive repairs.
How many times did you have to get your AC repaired over the past year? If you’ve had to call a technician to fix your malfunctioning air conditioner every few months, you may want to consider purchasing a new unit.
While it’s true that household appliances require regular maintenance, your air conditioner shouldn’t break down as often. Over time, these constant repairs and maintenance could mount up to far more than the price of a new air conditioner. If the cost of repair is almost half the price of a new AC unit, it would be wiser and more practical to just replace your old AC unit.
