An efficient air conditioning system is a necessity for residents in Waverly Hall, Georgia. Keep an eye out for some of the most common warning signs that it’s time to upgrade your air conditioner before it gives out completely on a sweltering day.
Frequent Repairs
If your air conditioner frequently needs repairs, you may want to think about upgrading it sooner rather than later. You should contact an HVAC company for regular maintenance on your system but not for frequent repairs. The cost of those fixes could end up being more than what you would have invested in a new cooling system, especially if you’re having to get it repaired more than once every few years. Talk to your HVAC expert about whether it’s better to upgrade your air conditioner before you spend another dollar.
Age of the System
It’s important to keep track of the age of your air conditioning system. Although these units can last for quite a while, especially when they’re properly cared for and maintained, they don’t last forever. Most HVAC equipment manufacturers recommend replacing your system every 10 to 15 years. If yours is reaching the end of its functional lifespan, now is the time to plan ahead for an upgrade.
Around the 10-year mark, most cooling systems start to experience a decrease in efficiency, which can cost you more in monthly bills. Older models simply can’t keep up with the efficiency ratings of modern units, so it’s worth the investment to invest in a more efficient cooling system for your home. You’ll save money on cooling costs without sacrificing comfort and you’ll add value to your home.
Hot and Cold Spots
One sign of poor energy efficiency is when the system can’t provide consistent, even cooling throughout your home. You may notice that certain areas of your home stay warm and uncomfortable when the air conditioner is running. Uneven cooling is a disturbing problem that often happens when the AC isn’t properly maintained or if the ductwork is no longer able to move air as efficiently. It can also happen when an air conditioner isn’t properly sized for your home, which could cause it to run for longer periods of time and waste a lot of extra energy.
Strange Smells or Noises
Hearing strange sounds or smelling odd odors can often indicate an impending problem. Certain odors are especially worrisome, such as musty smells that may indicate the presence of moisture in your system or electrical odors that could mean your wiring is burning. Loud sounds coming from the cooling system can also mean that a component has slipped out of place or something isn’t functioning properly. These warning signs may mean that your air conditioner is on its last legs.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
The indoor air quality in your home can impact your overall health and well-being. Poor indoor air quality is linked to a number of health concerns, including congestion, headaches, sore throats, eye irritation and coughing. If you notice an increase in any of these symptoms in yourself or any of the members of your family, the air conditioning system could be to blame.
Your AC unit pulls air through the ducts before moving it back through the vents to cool down your home. If these ducts are clogged with dirt and debris, contaminants may be present in your air, which can make you feel sick. A dirty filter may also cause the indoor air quality to decrease, so try changing it to see if this resolves the problem. However, a failing air conditioner will struggle to maintain healthy indoor air, so it could be an indicator that you need a new system.
At Climate Control Heating & Air Conditioning, we can help you determine if your home’s air conditioner is giving out and needs to be replaced. Contact us at 706-405-4796 for expert information and quality customer service.
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