Knowing when it’s time for an A/C upgrade can be a tough call, but if your cooling system is showing any of these five symptoms, it may be time to consider replacement. The average central air conditioner lasts from 12 to 15 years with routine maintenance by you and an HVAC contractor. If your system is approaching this age range, it may be time to replace it:

  1. Age. The minimum energy efficiency rating for air conditioner and heat pumps changed from 10 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) to 13 in 2006. If you’re using a system that’s 10 years or older, its actual SEER may be well below its SEER rating. These appliances tend to lose efficiency as they age and by replacing an aging system, you’ll start paying yourself back through lower energy bills.
  2. Noise. When your cooling system starts making more noise or strange sounds, it’s a sign that one or more of its parts are failing, like the indoor evaporator coil or the compressor in the outdoor condenser. The compressor works hard and it’s also the most expensive part to replace.
  3. Frequent repairs. If your air conditioner is starting to need more repairs more frequently, it might be a good time to consider an A/C upgrade. Instead of investing in repairs, that money could go toward a new cooling system with a warranty.
  4. Humidity. All else being equal, if the air conditioner isn’t removing as much humidity as it once did, it may be failing.  If the system doesn’t run long enough at a time, it won’t remove as much humidity or if any of the parts are failing, humidity may stay behind.
  5. Hot or cold spots indoors. If the conditioned air isn’t being distributed evenly through your home, you’ll likely have a problem with the ductwork or the cooling equipment.

The pros at Conditioned Air TX can help you decide whether to make the A/C upgrade to cut energy bills and increase comfort. Contact us to learn more. We’ve provided HVAC services for Sugar Land, Bellaire and River Oaks homeowners since 1957.

Image via Shutterstock.com

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