Warning Signs You May Need a New Air Conditioner

Air conditioners are one of the best inventions ever. They provide comfort in the midst of scorching summer heat. But since they are continuously exposed to harsh natural elements, such as heat, humidity, and storms, they will show signs of failure at some point.

Four Seasons Air Specialists is your trusted HVAC company in Circle Pines MN that offers professional advice in determining whether your AC needs repair or replacement. Our teams of trained and certified AC technicians can help you make the right decision.

Here are signs telling you that your AC is about to retire.

Declining Efficiency

It’s normal for air conditioners to lose their efficiency over time due to general wear and tear. Compared to a new unit, an old AC performs less efficiently because there are parts that have been slightly worn such as fans, coils, or the compressor. If your unit is suffering from any of these issues, it compromises your comfort levels, but you’re paying more for utilities. If you observe a steady increase in your utility bills without a reciprocal increase in use, this may indicate that it is time to go look for a new AC.

In addition, your existing air conditioner probably has a low seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). This number refers to the efficiency level of your unit.

Today, the minimum SEER rating for brand-new air conditioners is 13. This was set in 2006, replacing the previous standard of 10. If your AC has a SEER rating lower than 13, it is considered a low-efficiency unit.

Recurrent Repairs

It is quite normal for air conditioners to experience failures, but whenever you’re facing a major repair, you have to equate the cost of the repair with the cost of a brand new, more efficient unit.

Old AC units tend to work harder compared to a new one. Operating under pressure leads to overheating, and in some cases, total failure. Air conditioners usually suffer the most damage during the last two years of their life. The problem is that replacing old parts is quite a challenge. You may need to wait for a replacement part to be made available. You don’t want to let your family endure the heat while waiting for your AC to be repaired!

Subpar Cooling

You may be getting some cooled air throughout your home, but you will discover that your AC no longer has the cooling power it used to. If you turn the system on but the air doesn’t feel cool within a few minutes, it’s highly likely that it’s not working properly. This could mean that your AC’s compressor is having major issues or there are damaged vents. It could also be a ductwork problem, which restricts the airflow. Nevertheless, subpar cooling is a surefire sign that there’s a problem needing to be dealt with as soon as possible. Sure, a professional technician can fix the problem, but then again, replacement parts can be hard to find and expensive.

Excessive Noise

Any appliance that works with too much noise than normal is a sign of trouble. There are several types of strange noises your air conditioner can make such as banging, which can mean a broken part or an unbalanced indoor blower. If you hear rattling sounds, this could mean that the entire system is declining. A good air conditioner should run with a minimal noise level, so if you notice your unit is a little too loud, consider shopping for a replacement.

Moisture and Leakage Issues

Condensation is a typical part of the air conditioning process. However, if there is excessive leakage in the system, you may have a serious AC problem to deal with. If your unit has a refrigerant leak or you notice big pools of water around the system, this may indicate the need for professional intervention. Leaking coolant is dangerous. Be sure to contact your local air conditioning professional.

Ask the AC Maestros

There is no doubt your air conditioner is an essential piece of equipment, especially during summer. If you need help in choosing the right system, call Four Seasons Air Specialists, your top Shoreview AC installation company. We’ll provide you with relevant information to help you make an informed decision.