Your air conditioner is a trusty tool that keeps your Boise home cool during scorching hot summers. While units can last many years with proper maintenance, they won’t last forever. When your AC reaches the end of its lifespan, its efficiency declines as it can no longer effectively cool your home.
Keep reading to discover the signs that your unit has reached the end of its lifespan and how to determine whether an AC replacement is suitable for you.
How Long Does an AC Typically Last?
The average AC lifespan is 10 to 20 years but can vary due to several factors, such as the type of unit installed in your home. Central AC systems typically last between 12 and 17 years, while window units last about eight to 10.
The run time of the unit also significantly affects its lifespan. If you’re constantly running your unit, it wears down faster. Like any appliance, the less you use it, the longer it’ll last.
Maintenance is another crucial factor in the life of your unit. AC units should receive bi-annual maintenance, during which a technician cleans, tests, and tunes up the unit to keep it running smoothly.
Key Signs Your AC Is Nearing the End
Know the indicators of an AC unit reaching the end of its lifespan to help you stay ahead of breakdowns and sudden failures. The top signs your AC needs to be replaced include:
- Excessive dust: If you notice dust flying everywhere when you turn on your unit, check if the filters need replacement. If you replace the filters and the problem persists, your unit isn’t working correctly and may need replacement.
- Rising energy bills: If your energy bills increase but your usage has stayed the same, this can be a sign that your AC unit isn’t working efficiently. As units age, they begin to use more power as they work harder to cool your home.
- Unpleasant smells: If you notice unpleasant or burning smells coming from your unit, have it looked at or replaced as soon as possible. This can indicate mold growth or electrical issues that negatively affect your health and home.
- Leaks or moisture: Excessive moisture build-up or water leaking from your unit may indicate it’s time to replace your AC system. Moisture around your unit may point to broken parts and can lead to mold growth or water damage.
- Insufficient cooling: When your AC stops doing its job, it’s time to consider replacement options. If efficiency decreases and the unit no longer fills your home with cold air, this is a sign that it’s reached the end of its lifespan.
AC Replacement: The Benefits
Replacing your AC unit can feel like a burden, but it actually provides many benefits to your home, health, and wallet.
From the moment you turn on your new unit, you’ll see enhanced cooling efficiency, leading to a reduction in your home’s energy consumption and energy bills. Efficiency systems use up to 50% less energy than older AC models to produce the same amount of cold air.
A new unit also helps improve indoor air quality by providing more effective cooling. New systems are designed with advanced filtration and ventilation, which clear out allergens, contaminants, and pollutants from your home.
Installing a new AC unit also increases your home’s value and makes it more attractive in the market. Future home buyers appreciate newly installed appliances when shopping for their future house because they know they won’t have to replace the unit in the near future.
Is It Time To Upgrade? Questions To Ask Yourself
If you’re wondering whether it’s time to replace your unit, ask yourself these questions:
- How old is my current AC unit?
- Is it effectively cooling my home?
- Are there new features I’d benefit from?
- Are my energy bills rising for unexplained reasons?
- Do I properly maintain my current unit?
- Do I need a repair or replacement?
If your unit hasn’t been properly maintained or is only displaying minor issues, contact a technician to have it assessed. It may only need a repair or tune up to get it back in working condition. However, If your unit has reached its peak and is no longer increasing the comfort of your home, it’s likely time to replace it.
Finding the Right Replacement AC
When shopping for a new AC unit, you have several systems to choose from, including:
- Central air conditioners
- Smart air conditioners
- Window units
- Ductless mini-splits
- Floor-mounted units
- Evaporator coolers
- Dual-fuel air conditioners
The best AC unit for your home depends on your budget, usage, space requirements, and desired cooling power. One of our experienced team members can discuss your needs and find the perfect fit for your home.
Call Express Plumbing for AC Installation
If you’re ready to replace your home’s air conditioning unit, call Express Plumbing, Heating, and Air. Our team of experienced technicians can help you find the best system and have it installed in a matter of hours. With our customer-focused mindset and high-quality service, it’s easy to understand why we’re Boise’s number one plumbing and HVAC company.
We understand that a new air conditioner is a significant investment, so we offer flexible financing options, coupons, and discounts. We’ll provide you with an up-front quote at the time of service and connect you with our financing partner to find a plan to fit your budget.
Don’t forget to ask about our VIP Club! Members receive same-day service, priority scheduling, reduced fees, and bi-annual tune-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
My AC needs another expensive repair – is it time to replace it?
If your AC unit constantly needs repair, it may be time to replace it. Old units wear down over time, and parts break more easily as they age. If you constantly have to pay for repairs, replacing your unit can be a more cost-effective solution that provides enhanced cooling efficiency to your home.
My AC unit is making strange sounds and barely blowing air. Do I need to replace it?
If your AC makes strange sounds and has poor airflow, you may need to replace the motor. Contact our team to have a technician examine it. They’ll diagnose the issue and determine if a repair or replacement is needed.
