As an owner of a building or a home, you’re well aware that every essential item in your property has a shelf life.
Even things such as your AC unit go through what is known as the circle of life. If the AC cuts out on you on short notice, it can be a costly expense to replace.
Fortunately, there are several signs of needing an AC replacement before it gives out on you. That way you’re not left high and dry in the middle of summer next year.
Here are several signs that your AC needs to be replaced so you can keep an eye out for them.
1. Scarce Amount of Cool Air
This first factor may be difficult to identify during the winter months, but there’s still a need for frequent air conditioning during Bahamian winters.
If you’ve been noticing a lack of cool air when running your AC, it’s a clear sign that your entire unit is running on fumes.
The rule of thumb is to turn your AC on and wait a few minutes for cool air to hit the room. If in a few minutes you don’t notice it coming out of your vents, it’s cause for concern.
However, it doesn’t automatically mean you need an AC replacement. There are other reasons the cool air could be scarce.
2. Poor Air Flow
Don’t confuse “not getting cold air” with “not getting enough air.” These are two separate issues that could both mean your AC unit is compromised.
However, like the lack of cold air issues, there are several things that could be what needs fixed other than getting your AC unit replaced.
Things such as blocked vents or an unacceptably dirty air filter could be the problem you’re dealing with.
Regardless, some expenses for fixing these problems get too costly. In that case, it may make more sense to purchase an advanced AC system to replace your current one.
3. Horrible Smells
This factor isn’t just a sign that your AC needs to be replaced, it’s a danger to your overall health.
Terrible smells such as mold or smoke coming from your AC could mean further problems down the line if not fixed.
The moment you smell something out of the ordinary coming from your AC, contact an air conditioning expert right away to have it looked at.
4. Leaks
Ah yes, the universal sign that something is awry in any necessary piece of machinery: a leak.
Make no mistake, every air conditioning unit compiles condensation while it’s in use. But there’s a difference between specs of water on the vents and puddles of water on your floor.
As soon as you notice a leak, schedule to have it looked at right away. Leaks aren’t something that fixes themselves, and they only get worse with time.
5. Weird Sounds
At its optimal level of performance, your AC unit should be almost undetectable as you go about your daily life.
But if you’ve noticed lately that your unit is producing either uncommonly loud or making a few weird sounds every now and then, take it as a sign of decline.
Any portion of the unit’s operations could be what’s making the sound, so you’ll want an AC expert to take a glance at it.
6. Energy Bills Are Higher Than Usual
There are always ways that you can lower your energy bill, but an energy bill going higher up in cost is a warning sign something isn’t right with your AC.
In fact, when an AC unit is working efficiently, it will produce the same level of energy and keeping your energy bill’s price as consistent as possible.
Whenever you see a huge spike, schedule a time for someone to check on your AC and make sure it’s running okay. The higher bill may be a sign your unit is compensating for not working as smooth as usual.
7. It’s Getting up There in Age
As previously mentioned, even the most efficient AC units have a limited life expectancy. You can’t expect them to run forever.
Because of that, if you’ve had your current unit for anywhere around 12-15 years, consider that as a sign you at least need to start saving for a new one.
Even if it’s never caused you any setbacks, things can make a turn for the worst very quickly.
Don’t let this catch you by surprise. It never hurts to have an AC expert perform a checkup and at least make you aware of the remaining years they believe your current unit has on it.
8. Faulty Thermostat
Maybe your air conditioning system’s leading problem is the current thermostat that you have hooked up to it.
If you’re noticing that a few areas of your property aren’t getting the cold air that others are, it could be either your unit or thermostat that needs to be replaced.
Contact your local AC repairman/repairwoman and be ready for them to tell you that either or both need replacing.
9. You’ve Spent Too Much on Repairs Already
Perhaps all of the money you’ve had to spend on AC repairs lately was the key reason for your reading this article in the first place.
If so, you know how quickly those costs can add up. They reach a point where you could’ve paid for an entirely new system to be installed.
Don’t wait for a second longer to replace it. Save yourself any future expenses on the current AC system and get your unit replaced right away.
Don’t Put off Your AC Replacement a Second Longer!
Now that you’ve seen all the tell-tale signs of needed an AC replacement, it’s time to consider all your new AC system options.
Be sure to read this article on why the Innovair Oasis is an incredible value for your property.
To start this process, feel free to fill out our form to get a quote and we’ll be happy to discuss your options with you further.
