3 Signs That Indicate a Need for AC Replacement
As summer rapidly approaches, a home's air conditioner becomes increasingly important. This is especially true in Texas, a state known for its heat. Air conditioning can be life-saving under certain circumstances. Homeowners should make sure that their AC is properly functioning. AC replacement may be needed if a home's air conditioning is exhibiting the following behaviors: not cooling well, high energy bills, loud sounds, and noxious smells.
Inconsistent Temperatures or Not Reaching Optimal Temps
Throughout the life of an HVAC system, there can be many things that go wrong. Still, one of the first easily missed indicators of various issues is inconsistent temperatures. The thermostat is set, and the air conditioner runs a long time and just can't quite bring the home temperature down to where the thermostat is set. Some days are fine, and some days are not. A good indication of a problem is that the AC unit seems to be running, but there is warm air blowing out of the vents, or there is little airflow from the vents at all. Both of these instances can indicate the following list of problems:
- Air duct clogging or breakage
- Coolant leak
- Dirty air filters
- Electrical malfunction
- Frozen evaporator coil
- Malfunctioning thermostat
Perhaps some of these problems can be repaired, but many of them require air conditioning replacement.
The Energy Bill Is Rising Like a Rocket
No AC unit can last forever. All pieces of machinery lose efficiency as they age. Proper AC installation and biannual professional maintenance will make a unit last longer, but it cannot function indefinitely. The energy bill taking a sudden spike is a clear indicator that an air conditioner needs some serious attention. Sometimes, it's a matter of maintenance, but units tend to last between 10 and 15 years at best. Here's why a new air conditioning installation may be the best investment:
- Cost of Parts: It may be impossible to get parts for an older unit that is worn out. If the parts are purchasable they will likely cost much more due to their rarity.
- Multiple Problems: An air conditioning unit at the end of its life may have more than one problem that needs to be addressed, which may be behind the poor efficiency. Repairing multiple things may be more expensive than replacement.
- Future Investment: If a home's air conditioning unit has been around for a while, it will likely continue to have issues and breakdowns. A replacement is an investment in future peace of mind and home comfort.
Unexpected Sounds and Foul Odors
Banging, booming, and popping sounds are not the typical noises a homeowner wants to hear from their HVAC system. These noises can indicate damage or loose parts and should be evaluated by a professional immediately. Likewise, burning smells and other foul odors may indicate electrical problems or even a pest infestation in the ducts. A homeowner should have these investigated right away.
About The Darville Company
Offering 24/7 emergency service to Odessa, TX, and beyond, The Darville Company is all about their customers' home comfort. Call today for on-time AC service and 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
