Your AC unit works hard to keep your home and everyone in it happy, comfortable, and cool all summer long. But how long do AC systems last, and how will you know when it’s time for AC repair or replacement? No one wants to be caught off guard by the big expense of replacing their AC unit. To give you an idea of when it may be time, here are a few surefire signs you can look out for.
AC Repair & Replacement for Your Unit
1. Your unit is old.
Like most mechanical items, AC units don’t last forever. In fact, most air conditioners only last about 15-20 years. If your unit is older than this or is getting close to that 15-year mark, it may be time to consider replacing it. At this point, repairs aren’t the best option, since you’ll likely have to replace the unit in a few years anyway.
Another way to gauge whether your unit is past its prime? Use the 5,000 rule: Take the age of the equipment and multiply it by the repair cost. If the number you wind up with is more than 5,000, it’s time to look into a replacement unit.
2. Your unit isn’t efficient any longer.
Thanks to recent advances in HVAC technology, today’s air conditioning units are much more efficient than their older counterparts. Because of this, Energy Star recommends replacing your unit with a more energy-efficient model if your current unit is a decade old or older.
Not sure the cost is worth it?
The US Department of Energy estimates that people who replace ten-year-old AC units will save an average of 20-40% on their home cooling costs. Since air conditioners use about 5% of all the electricity produced in the US, this represents considerable savings that make the initial replacement cost well-worth it!
3. Your unit isn’t working well.
If your unit is experiencing significant issues, like substantial bills or skyrocketing energy costs, repair is worth some serious consideration. Not only will you likely save money in the long run, but you’ll have all summer to enjoy that fresh “new AC unit” feeling once you get AC repair completed.
What Else to Watch For
In addition to the “big three” listed above, here are some other danger signs to watch for in your AC unit:
- Increased run time
- Lack of regular maintenance
- Repeated or frequent repair needs
- Pilot light that doesn’t catch or is unreliable
- Loud noises during operation, including blower humming, noise from the outdoor unit, or groaning and banging from the furnace
While these things may seem like small inconveniences, they can create a significant issue in no time. Contact your local AC company for a comprehensive system evaluation if you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above. Acting quickly may save you time, money, and major headaches as a homeowner.
AC Replacement & AC Repair in Yankton, SD
If you’re struggling with your AC unit, our team can come out and make a few simple repairs. Or if you’re ready to jump into a new unit altogether, we can help with that, too. At Larry’s Heating & Cooling, we’re proud of the reputation we’ve built, and we believe the quality of our work speaks for itself. We want you to feel comfortable year-round, and we’re here to help you get there. For AC replacement and AC repair in Yankton, Vermillion, or a surrounding SD community, get in touch! Schedule an appointment with our team today to get started. Worried about the cost? Apply for financing in just a few quick clicks.
