People continue to prioritize home comfort in the post-pandemic era. Even as life gradually resumes its average pace, a cozy living environment remains paramount for families and individuals alike. Ensuring optimal comfort during the summer often involves investing in a high-quality air conditioning installation. While central air conditioning is prevalent, it’s crucial to recognize that individual preferences and requirements vary.
In this blog, we’ll discuss when it might be time to replace your AC and how to choose the right installation service and system for your home.
Tips To Determine If It’s Time To Call Air Conditioning Installation Company
As we know, air conditioning systems are designed to last several years, but they don’t last forever. Even with the best maintenance and repair, you’ll eventually need to replace an AC unit if you have it long enough. So, when should you consider AC services, and when should you go with a new installation? Here are some tips:
AC Over 10 Years Old
Unlike other home equipment and accessories, air conditioners are often left outdoors. Consequently, they are exposed to harsh weather conditions, including extreme temperatures and salty breezes. Classic AC models have a 10- to 12-year lifespan. Modern technology may last 15 to 20 years due to its better efficiency and more modern materials.
A unit’s life cycle depends on several factors, including proper maintenance. A routinely maintained unit will last longer than a poorly maintained one. Neglecting AC tune-ups will significantly decrease its lifespan. Other factors influencing lifespan are the device’s temperature and humidity and whether it is correctly sized for your living space.
Frequent Breakdowns
If your air conditioner frequently malfunctions despite regular upkeep, it’s time for a replacement. Common issues like clogged filters and worn-out parts can wreak havoc on your HVAC system. A clogged filter can damage fan coils and other sensitive components, while inadequate airflow to the evaporator coil can cause overheating, making repairs ineffective.
A malfunctioning fan leads to ineffective air dispersion, dirty coils, and freezing, which traps heat and causes further damage. If you’re facing recurring breakdowns after the warranty expires, seek expert advice from professionals like Koontz Heating & Air Conditioning to assess whether a repair or replacement is necessary.
High Energy Bills
An unexplained sudden spike in home energy consumption could indicate that your unit has malfunctioned and needs immediate replacement. Unless there are multiple changes in your home’s energy use, your monthly bills should remain the same, only fluctuating during the peak of our AC season (usually July, August, and September). However, sometimes your energy habits are the same, but you are getting extremely high power bills. A higher power bill means the unit is losing efficiency or has experienced some malfunction.
Modern air conditioners use 30-40 percent less energy to produce the same amount of cooling as older units. Therefore, you should upgrade older units with energy-efficient conditioners that can save up to 40 percent of your cooling energy costs.
Finally, if you notice an unusual spike in your power bills, it is advisable to call a professional at Koontz Heating & Air Conditioning to check the unit and advise you on how to proceed.
Unusual Sounds
If you notice any unusual or strange sounds emanating from your air conditioning unit, they may indicate the need for replacement. When the system is activated, sounds such as rattling, squealing, or banging should prompt immediate action. Power down the unit and contact a skilled technician for an inspection.
These noises often stem from a slipping belt or worn motor bearings. An imbalanced indoor blower can cause banging, while a clanking sound may signal part failure in the sealed unit, requiring replacement.
AC Is Blowing Warm Air
During summers, the temperature can get over 100 °F; you wouldn’t want to couple that with an AC blowing hot air. Warm air is often an indicator of a malfunctioning compressor or that you are low on refrigerant. Sometimes, it could also mean that your AC’s ducts pull air from an attic space or outside rather than the compressor. If your AC is blowing warm air, call in a technician to have it repaired, and if the repair doesn’t work, you can consider replacing it.
Identifying the Perfect Times for Installing Your New Air Conditioner
The optimal time to purchase and install a new air conditioner is when you aim to maximize the value of both the purchase and installation expenses. Spring is the optimal season for installing a new air conditioning unit. However, the season is not the only one to consider. Your current unit’s condition and energy needs also play a role.
Avoid The Summer Rush
Most people wait until the summer to buy and install an AC unit. Many people must run their air conditioners longer to create comfortable home conditions with hotter temperatures. As this demand for air conditioning increases in the summer, older units tend to break down. This is also when many people find their AC is no longer efficient enough to cool their home.
Save Money Over Summer Installing In Spring
With the increased heat of summer, running your air conditioner enough to make your home comfortable will also increase your utility costs. Sometimes, this cost can be substantial and unexpected. Installing a new unit before the end of spring ensures an efficient cooling system when needed. By preemptively replacing the device, you may find that you are saving yourself from a midseason need for emergency repair. In the long term, this can also reduce your monthly energy expenses.
Avoid Constant Repairs
Frequent repair bills can quickly add up and become a significant expense. If you’re constantly scheduling repairs, investing in a new system might be more cost-effective than dealing with ongoing uncertainties. A new, well-functioning AC can enhance efficiency, potentially reducing your monthly bills. Plus, it saves you the hassle of constantly coordinating with technicians to fix issues at home. Ultimately, opting for a new system can offer financial savings and peace of mind.
Home Renovations
Renovating your home is also a good time to consider installing a new air conditioner. The potential for upgrading your system means enjoying modern enhancements such as zoned cooling areas and technology such as digital thermostats. An updated HVAC system that fits an updated space allows you to enjoy the investment you have made in your home immediately.
New Home Purchase
When purchasing a new-build home, make sure to choose a new HVAC system that fits your needs. An oversized system tends to result in frequent cycling of the AC, reducing the system’s lifespan. An unwanted home will not meet the home’s cooling requirements and will also increase your energy consumption.
When buying a powerful system, consider the condition of the current system. If it is in disrepair or is the incorrect size to serve the home, you may find that the house needs a new system. This will add to the cost of the new home.
Why Should You Hire Koontz Heating & Air Conditioning?
We are Daytona Beach’s premier destination for top-tier heating and AC installation and repair services. Our HVAC contractors are dedicated to addressing all your HVAC needs with expertise and efficiency. We focus on customer satisfaction and offer swift solutions tailored to your requirements. Trust our certified technicians for reliable installations, maintenance, and repairs, ensuring your indoor comfort year-round.
Conclusion
Determining the optimal time for air conditioning repair services in Daytona Beach involves assessing various factors, such as climate, budget, and personal preferences. By considering these aspects and seeking professional advice, homeowners can make informed decisions that ensure maximum comfort and efficiency. Eventually, choosing the right time for installation leads to a cooling system that meets the household’s specific needs while enhancing overall indoor comfort.