4 Signs You Need a New Air Conditioning Unit

As summer months approach, you start to prepare both the outside and inside of your home for the season. A vital step in getting ready for the heat is to ensure you have an air conditioning unit that functions properly. Certain signs signify you need a new unit. Ultimately, if you purchase a new unit, you may save yourself money and prevent your unit from failing when you need it.

Here are four signs that you might need a new air conditioning unit.

1. Air Conditioner Is Over 10 Years Old

On average, an air conditioner lasts around ten years. The lifespan of your unit depends on how frequently you use it as well as how well you maintain it. For instance, if you only use your air conditioner a few hours a day, a few months of the year, your AC may last 10 years or possibly longer. To get the most out of your unit, you should make sure you're changing the filter regularly.

Even if your air conditioning is still working after 10 years, you may want to replace it. Older units are less energy efficient. They use more energy to keep your house at a comfortable temperature, which increases your energy bill.

As you determine whether to replace your unit and what new model to purchase, you want to look at an air conditioning's energy efficiency ratio (EER). The EER is a ratio that compares the thermal units to the power input. It's a fraction comparing the BTUs to the watts of power an AC uses.

You want to aim for a higher EER because these are the most energy-efficient units. Moreover, they'll save you money on your energy bills while keeping your house cool. One way to tell if an air conditioner has a high EER is to look for the ENERGY STAR label. These units rank as ones that are most known for their energy efficiency.

In addition to saving you money, an energy-efficient AC is better for the environment. You'll need less electricity to run your unit to keep your house at a comfortable temperature. By using less electricity, you're reducing your carbon emissions. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that causes atmospheric changes that alter climates throughout the world.

2. Air Conditioning Unit Needs a Costly Repair

Chances are, if your AC unit is older and requires a costly repair, you may want to consider purchasing a new unit instead. When making this decision, you want to compare the cost of the repair with how long you estimate the AC will run. Additionally, you want to consider the cost of the repair versus buying a new unit altogether. Sometimes, you'll save money in the long run by buying a new AC rather than repairing your old one.

3. Energy Bill Is High

Even if your AC is running and effectively cooling your home, an upgrade is still beneficial if you notice your energy bills are starting to increase during the without any reason. To compare usage, you might want to look back at last summer's energy bills and evaluate how much your electric bill rose when you were running your AC then.

4. Air Conditioner Uses R-22 Freon

Freon is the refrigerant that cools the air before it exits your unit. While R-22 Freon was common in units at one time, air conditioning manufacturers no longer use it. This refrigerant is highly flammable. It also releases greenhouse gases when you open the tank, which contributes to global warming. If your unit still uses this refrigerant, a new AC system may be best for your home.

Before summer is here, you might want to purchase a new air conditioning unit. Sometimes, you're spending more money on your energy bills with an older unit. Additionally, older air conditioners don't cool as well and may cost you in repair expenses.

Schedule an appointment if you have any issues with your air conditioner by calling Preferred Mechanical Services. We serve Beech Grove, IN, and the surrounding region.