Your air conditioner is built to last for several years. But at some point, it will show signs of decline. When these telltale signs begin to appear, you might want to consider looking for a new one.
Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted HVAC company in Anoka MN. We can help you determine if the signs your AC demonstrates the system is due for a repair or if it’s time to replace it altogether.
In this article, we give you some of the most common signs your cooling system is due for a replacement.
Unexplainable Cooling Bills
If you do not have any changes in your daily routine, but you notice a sudden increase in your electricity bill, it could mean you’re dealing with an inefficient cooling system. The common cause of an inefficient air conditioner is a dirty filter, which keeps your air handler, ductwork, and the indoor coils clean. When you fail to change or clean your air filter regularly, your AC will have added strain. Dust and debris can accumulate after so much air is filtered, which restricts airflow throughout your ductwork. Obstruction to the airflow will cause your AC to take longer to cool your home. This problem results in high electric bills since a restriction in the airflow causes the motors and compressor to overheat. But if you have a relatively clean filter and yet the AC still causes your energy bills to rise, it might be suffering from more serious problems. It’s best to consult a qualified professional to determine the best steps to take.
Inadequate Airflow
One of the most common signs of AC problems is when the airflow coming through the vents feels deficient. The power from the cooling system comes from the compressor, which is located in the outdoor unit. This essential component circulates the refrigerant, allowing for the process of heat exchange to take place in the coils found in the indoor and outdoor units. If the compressor malfunctions, the system won’t have enough power to move the air, so inadequate flow is often caused by a compressor issue.
Sadly, the compressor is one of the most expensive components found in your system, so a repair can be excessively costly. In some instances, a replacement might be necessary, and your AC specialist can help you figure out the best course of action.
Warm Air Instead of Cool
Warm air coming through the vents can be quite irritating, especially during the warmest days of summer. What you can do to address the problem is to make sure your thermostat is set to the cool function (obviously). You may not believe this, but countless people forget to make the switch when the cooling season starts and call an HVAC technician, thinking something is wrong.
If properly set, the warm air could be caused by insufficient refrigerant level. There is likely a leak in your refrigerant line, so you’ll need to have a technician take a closer look, seal off the hole, and recharge the refrigerant to the right level. However, if this is an ongoing issue, your existing AC probably due for a replacement.
Declining Parts
Just like any other piece of equipment, your AC’s internal components can also suffer from aging. At some point, some components such as motors, capacitors, and the compressor will fail, making it very hard for the system to perform its task. When a condenser motor begins to fail, it becomes unable to remove the heat from your home effectively. The motor starts to work harder, and the thermostat is not satisfied, causing the motor to run longer than usual. Not only does this issue cause you to have an increase in your utility bills, but it also shortens your air conditioner’s life.
Need Help Upgrading to a New AC? Call Marsh Heating and Air Conditioning
If your current AC keeps on frustrating you, it may be time to let it retire and switch to a new, more efficient unit. Give us a call and tell us how we can help. As your reliable Champlin heating and air conditioning installation company, it would be our pleasure to be your partner in choosing the right unit for your home.