Is It Time To Replace Your Air Conditioner? A Guide

When the temperatures rise in Illinois, you need an air conditioner to keep up with the heat. While wear and tear on a system is typical, significant or recurrent issues indicate a more severe problem. However, if your unit shows any signs of disrepair, it might not be able to cool your home as efficiently as you need.

In this blog, we will discuss signs that it’s time to consider upgrading your cooling system so you can trust your home and family will stay cool and comfortable even on the hottest day of the year.

6 Signs You Should Replace Your AC

Various signs indicate your home’s cooling system is on its last leg and needs to be replaced. To keep your home cool during the warmest days in Northeast Chicago, you need to know what to look for, including:

Increased Energy Bills

If you notice an unexplained increase in your utility bills, chances are your air conditioning is not working as efficiently as it should.

The issue could be something as simple as a dirty air filter that needs to be changed or something more serious, like a leak from a cracked refrigerant line. If your system is causing a spike in your bills, it’s time to call a professional to discuss replacing it.

Frequent or Costly Repairs

You can expect to repair your AC system occasionally, as is standard with normal wear and tear from seasonal use. However, if you repeatedly call for professional repairs or your repairs add up to more than half the price of a new air conditioner, it’s time to replace your unit.

Warm Air Blowing From Unit

If your air conditioner is blowing warm air instead of cool air or not blowing air at all, there could be an issue with the system’s compressor.

Other issues could be a clogged filter, a thermometer disconnect, or dirty ductwork preventing proper airflow. When you expect your AC to cool your home and it’s not adequately doing the job, it may be time for a replacement.

Age Of Your AC System

An air conditioner can last 10 to 15 years with typical use, but the age of the system significantly increases the need for replacement. If your unit is over 15 years old, it’s likely on its last leg and will require an upgrade soon.

Strange Or Loud Noises

Some noises are normal when your AC unit is starting up, but loud noises, such as whistling, rattling, clanging, or grinding, are abnormal and indicate a more significant issue. For instance, abnormal noises could signal a loose part or a slipped belt.

Foul Or Offensive Smells

Smelling weird odors from your air conditioner is not normal. Musty or mildewy smells could indicate mold growth in your ductwork or on the condenser coils, while a burning smell could signal a failing motor or melting wire.

Choosing A New AC With Home Comfort

When your home’s air conditioner shows any of these signs, speak with a professional regarding your options for replacement. Our team can help you choose a suitable unit for your home and family’s needs.

Home Comfort has helped Northwest Chicagoland homeowners with their air conditioning needs since 1998. Our background-checked technicians promise to make your home comfortable with upfront pricing and financing options for replacement services.

Contact the Home Comfort team today to schedule AC replacement services and keep your home cool all summer.