A/C System Dying? Warning Signs
A/C System Dying? Warning Signs
Have you turned on the A/C system this spring only to find the old war horse is just not quite getting the job done? If your HVAC is more than 10 years old, it may have reached its projected life expectancy and be ready for replacement. Read on for information about how to know when your A/C is dying, and when it’s time to start shopping for a new one.
Signs the A/C Should Be Replaced
1. Age. As mentioned above, if the A/C is more than 10-15 years old, it may be worn out and ready for replacement. Although we know you want it to last as long as possible, you should be aware that modern air conditioners are much more efficient than those manufactured 10-15 years ago, and when you replace your old model, you’ll reap the benefits from lower utility bills.
2. No cold air. This could be an easily solvable condition, such as changing the air filter or cleaning the coils, but it might also be that the compressor is dying. It generally is not worthwhile to replace the compressor. When it dies, it’s time to replace the A/C.
3. Screeching sounds from the compressor. Another sign of compressor failure is a screeching sound. Have the compressor inspected and replace the A/C if need be.
4. Your utility bills are going up. As your A/C ages, it may have to work harder to cool your home. It draws more power while doing so, and will increase your utility costs. While an HVAC tech will be able to examine your A/C and look for easy fixes, it may be the unit is just wearing out and ready to go.
5. Runs continuously. If your A/C runs continuously and you’re just feeling warmish air from the vents, it’s probably time to replace the system. You can try checking the refrigerant charge, cleaning coils and a few other repairs, but it also may be the system is worn out.
For more advice on whether your A/C system is wearing out, contact Powers Heating and Air. We serve Peachtree City.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 770-487-2040.
Credit/Copyright Attribution: “TeroVesalainen/Pixabay”
2 Comments
Thank you for pointing out that older ACs can make loud screeching sounds, and your house might not feel cool. Over the weekend, I was at my mother’s house, and she mentioned that her energy bill has been increasing over the last few months! I wonder if her AC is on its last leg. We should look for AC companies that could either repair it or replace it.
I like how you mentioned that if your system is older than 10-15 years then it might be time for a new air conditioner. My sister is thinking about hiring an air conditioning installation professional because she recently got a new ac unit for her living room and doesn’t know how to install it herself. It seems like a good idea for her to hire a reputable specialist that can help her set up her new cooling system correctly so that it’ll work properly when summer arrives.