Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs A Replacement
As summer draws near, the temperature rises, and air conditioners become our source of respite from the heat. However, some air conditioning units may not perform as efficiently as they did in the past. When faced with typical issues related to AC systems, it may be necessary to either repair or replace the unit depending on the severity of the problem or whether it has exceeded its air conditioner life expectancy. It is essential to take action promptly to prevent the issue from worsening. It is easier and more cost-effective to fix problems when they are detected early. Always make sure that you collaborate with a qualified and certified HVAC technician if you encounter problems with your air conditioner.
Signs Your Air Conditioner Needs A Replacement
Contents
This article covers the main indicators that suggest it’s time to replace your air conditioner.
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Warm Air
An air conditioner’s primary function is to circulate cool air throughout the house. If it emits warm air instead, this can be due to various reasons. Homeowners should make sure their thermostat is functioning correctly by checking if it is set to cooling mode and responding to changes in settings. Adjust the unit to a lower temperature to see if it resolves the issue. If there is no improvement, check the air filter to see if it is dirty. If the problem persists, get a technician to investigate a potentially faulty compressor.
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High Cooling Costs
Air conditioners are notorious for consuming significant amounts of energy, resulting in high utility bills. However, it is worth investigating if there is an unexpected increase in cooling expenses. Unless there has been a rate hike from the energy provider, the issue could be related to an inefficient system. Something impedes the unit from functioning correctly, causing it to work harder than necessary and use more energy. Common causes of this problem include clogged filters and refrigerant leaks. While homeowners can replace filters, it is best to leave refrigerant leaks to the experts.
Frequent AC Repairs
Air conditioners are typically reliable machines, particularly during their initial years of operation. They seldom malfunction or fail. However, issues can surface much later, around ten years or more, due to the accumulation of wear and tear. Problems can begin to arise at this point, and frequent repair calls can quickly drain one’s finances. In such situations, it may be wise to contemplate a system replacement to mitigate losses and start anew. Seek advice from a reputable HVAC specialist to help you make the best decision based on the facts.
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Insufficient Airflow
Insufficient airflow from your air conditioning unit is a clear indication of inefficiency. Blocked filters and a broken motor are the primary causes of poor airflow and must be resolved promptly to enhance performance. It is crucial to address these issues as soon as possible. Scheduling an annual AC tune-up can also help to improve the unit’s efficiency.
Frequent Air Conditioner Cycles
Under normal operation, air conditioners cycle on a relatively consistent basis. If you observe an increase in the cycling frequency, it could indicate equipment problems. A professional tune-up may help to restore normal functioning. However, if the system has been cycling frequently since installation, it may be due to an oversized unit that requires replacement. Consulting with an HVAC specialist can aid in determining the appropriate system size for your home, preventing this issue from reoccurring.
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High Humidity
In addition to cooling the air, air conditioning systems also regulate the humidity levels inside the house. This is one reason why it feels refreshing to enter an air-conditioned room after spending a prolonged time outdoors. However, if the AC unit can no longer reduce humidity, it can lead to an uncomfortable and sticky feeling. Repair and re-calibration of the system can address the issue, but homeowners may also want to consider installing a whole-house dehumidifier. Consulting with an HVAC technician can provide valuable insights and recommendations on the appropriate course of action.
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Water Leaks
Air conditioning units reduce humidity by cooling the air around the coils, causing condensation to form. The resulting water is collected in a container and discharged from the system through a designated outlet. However, leaks may occur in the system’s channels, leading to water leaks from the AC. Ignoring this problem can result in damage to the floors and the structure of the house. Technicians can address this issue by cleaning the inside of the system to prevent leaks.
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Bad Odors
Moisture inside the AC system can foster the growth of bacteria and other pathogens, leading to unpleasant odors. This can make the house uncomfortable and even embarrassing to guests. The situation can worsen over time, so it is crucial to act promptly to fix the issue. HVAC specialists can conduct a comprehensive cleaning of the unit and ducts to address the problem, and a tune-up can also help. If necessary, technicians may recommend high-tech solutions, such as installing UV lamps to eliminate bacteria and pathogens.
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Unusual Noises
Unusual and loud noises coming from an air conditioner can be a cause for concern. While a low hum is considered normal, a rattling sound might indicate loose parts, while grinding noises could be pointing to a broken compressor. It is important to listen closely to discern the type of sound being produced since each can indicate a different problem. In such cases, have a tune-up, at the very least. HVAC technicians can diagnose the situation and recommend the proper solution.
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Conclusion
Seek the help of a licensed technician for most air conditioning issues. Contacting professionals guarantee that you are taking the appropriate steps for your cooling system. Experts can evaluate if the problem is fixable or if replacing the unit is more cost-effective.
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Call R.F. Ohl For Your Air Conditioning Requirements
At R.F. Ohl, we take pride in providing top-notch heating and cooling services throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania, including the Poconos and the Greater Lehigh Valley Region. Our team is made up of highly skilled and industry-certified technicians. We specialize in HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, replacements, and more. We aim to provide the best HVAC service possible and guarantee our work will meet your expectations.
We understand the importance of keeping a comfortable home while keeping energy costs low. That’s why we offer affordable maintenance services to improve your HVAC system’s efficiency and lower your cooling costs. Whether you require a repair or a replacement, we will work with you to find the best solution that fits your budget and meets your needs.
At R.F. Ohl, we stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee. Call us today and schedule a service appointment or request a free, in-home estimate.
Click here to contact us today or give us a call at (610) 377-1098 if you have any questions. Click the link to view our service area.