Is it Time to Replace Your A/C?
Hey there, Orange County homeowners! We get it—your Irvine air conditioner is the unsung hero in your home, especially during those scorching California summers.
But what happens when that icy blast starts feeling more like a lukewarm breeze? Or when your energy bills are skyrocketing like its nobody’s business? Could it be… time to break up with your old unit and install a new air conditioning unit?
Feeling Less Cool Air
The first sign you need to pay attention to is the air temperature. If you’re constantly cranking the thermostat lower but aren’t feeling that same refreshing coolness, there’s a problem. The reason? There could be a myriad of issues with your cooling system, from a refrigerant leak to faulty components.
So if turning down the thermostat to the mid-60s or turning on other fans is becoming a norm—time to call in a pro.
Are Those… New AC Sounds?
If your current air conditioner starts humming a new tune—meaning you hear rattling, humming, or other strange noises—it’s giving you an audible sign it’s time to look for a new air conditioner. Issues could range from a blown compressor to leaky refrigerant lines. If you’re wondering whether to repair or replace your old air conditioner, consider its age and life expectancy. It’s likely worth getting a replacement unit if your current AC unit is over a decade old.
Decade-Old AC Units
How old is your air conditioning unit? If it’s hitting its 10th birthday soon, consider this a milestone not just for the appliance but for you as a homeowner. Even if you’ve properly maintained your air conditioning system with regular maintenance, your current unit just might be on its last legs.
Did you know the average lifespan of an AC system ranges between 10 and 15 years? And living in Orange County, where we basically have summer almost year-round, that lifespan might be even shorter.
Sky-High Energy Bills
Look, we all love Orange County’s sunny weather, but not when it starts costing us big bucks. If your energy bill has been climbing, it might be time for a newer, more efficient model of air conditioner. In some cases, replacing a decade-old unit could save you up to $2,500 over the life of the new AC system! Older air conditioners just can’t compete with the energy efficient design and technology of a new unit.
Frequent AC Repair
AC repair costs add up quickly, don’t they? Sure, a couple of hundred bucks here and there might not seem like much, but eventually, those “minor” repairs turn into a significant investment. If you’re facing a repair cost of $1,000 or more on an older unit, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new one.
Remodeling Your Space
Plan on renovating your Orange County home? Even small changes to your home’s layout can impact your air conditioner units’ performance. An undersized system in an expanded living space leads to problems like higher humidity and increased energy bills.
Eco-Friendly and Wallet-Friendly
Lastly, if you’re looking to take advantage of the latest advances in energy efficiency, there might be local tax credits or rebates available. You’ll not only reduce your carbon footprint but also save a few bucks on your energy bill in the process.
Positive Plumbing, Heating and Air is Here to Help with Your Air
Conditioning Replacement
So, when is it time to look at an air conditioning unit replacement? If your system is old, making strange noises, or the repairs and heating and cooling costs are stacking up, it’s probably time to replace your air conditioner. Take the plunge before the sweltering Orange County summer hits—because the last thing you want is a broken AC when it’s sizzling outside.
