How to Know When AC Replacement May Be Needed
Nobody wants their aging air conditioner to fail and break down in the summer, leaving the home without air conditioning until professionals can come and perform air conditioner replacement. So, homeowners should watch for signs to replace the AC unit, allowing a professional to inspect it and determine whether replacement is needed before it leaves the home uncomfortable. This blog post will share some common signs indicating that AC replacement is needed.
The Air Conditioner's Age
Every aging air conditioner eventually reaches a point where replacement becomes more practical and cost-effective than repair. Most AC systems have a lifespan of around 10 to 20 years, depending on maintenance and usage patterns. When an air conditioner crosses the decade mark and begins showing signs of performance issues, it's a sign to consider replacing it rather than investing in costly repairs on an aging unit.
As AC equipment ages, wear and tear can lead to more frequent breakdowns, reduced cooling performance, and decreased efficiency, resulting in higher energy consumption and increased cooling costs. So, if homeowners have noticed issues with their air conditioner that’s over 10 years old, it’s an indicator that replacement may be needed. Rather than pouring money into an aging cooling system, investing in a new air conditioner offers improved reliability, enhanced energy efficiency, and superior comfort for the home.
Frequent or Expensive Repairs
Is the air conditioner becoming a money pit? Frequent repairs often indicate it's time for a replacement rather than another fix. Repair costs can add up quickly, so continuing to invest in an older unit often proves financially counterproductive, especially when a new air conditioner installation will be more reliable with fewer repair costs, and more efficient with lower cooling costs.
In addition to needing frequent AC repair, needing a very expensive repair may also make it more cost-effective to get a replacement instead. The financial tipping point typically occurs when a repair exceeds 50% of the cost of a new air conditioner installation. When a repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, replacement may become the smarter investment because modern AC systems can operate with higher energy efficiency ratings. This improved efficiency translates to lower monthly energy bills that help offset the initial investment.
Consider tracking the air conditioner’s repair history to make an informed decision about replacement. If homeowners notice repair frequency increasing, this progression rarely reverses. Many homeowners find themselves caught in a cycle of diminishing returns with aging systems. Breaking free from this cycle by installing a new air conditioner eliminates the stress of unexpected breakdowns while providing reliable comfort.
High Energy Bills
Another signal that it may be time to replace an air conditioner is unusually high energy bills. An aging AC system gradually loses efficiency as it ages, forcing it to work harder and consume more electricity to maintain comfortable temperatures. However, an old air conditioner in need of replacement isn’t the only potential reason for inefficiency and higher cooling costs.
Energy efficiency can also suffer when air conditioner maintenance is neglected or there is a problem with the system that needs to be repaired. When the AC system is properly maintained and no signs of a malfunction are noticed, it can point to the need for a replacement. The energy efficiency of new air conditioning systems has improved over time. So, installing a new, more efficient air conditioner is a worthwhile investment to reduce energy bills.
About Lambert Plumbing & Heating, LTD
Lambert Plumbing & Heating, LTD has more than four decades of experience serving the Vancouver community. They provide upfront pricing, 24/7 emergency service, and expertly trained technicians. Call them for air conditioner replacement and installation services in Vancouver, BC.
