If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your AC unit very often as long as it comes on and continues to cool your home. As with most of us, there is nothing to worry about if you are comfortable. When there is a problem, however, it can be a big problem. As the Texas heat kicks in, you’ll want to be sure that your air conditioner can efficiently handle the demands of the weather. Regular maintenance and routine tune-ups on your HVAC system can ensure that it stays in good working order.
Even with routine maintenance, many experts agree that the average AC unit will last 12 to 15 years. With proper care, you might be able to extend the life of your unit. Eventually, however, your air conditioner will begin to age and give way to the demands of Texas summers. As the system ages, it will become increasingly inefficient, and you will begin to notice problems with the temperature in your house.
Inefficient systems can lead to costly repairs, uncomfortable temperatures, and expensive energy bills. If you notice issues with inconsistent temperatures in your house, depending on where you live, they could be signs it may be time for a new AC system in Andrews, TX. Let’s take a look at some warning signs that it is time to replace your air conditioner.
Constant Repairs
If your air conditioner is in good working order, you generally only need to worry about maintaining your unit. During the hot Texas summers, you will need to change the air filters frequently. Before the intense heat, you should keep up with your regular HVAC tune-ups completed by a professional technician. When your system begins to age, however, you might notice that it requires more attention. Parts like the condenser, compressor, and capacitor might require work or replacement.
As the breakdowns continue and your AC system requires more frequent repairs, the temperatures in your home could suffer. Additionally, you might have to pay for expensive emergency services if your system breaks during non-business hours. More frequent repairs could be a sign of trouble and indicate that your system is nearing the end of its service life. Experts recommend that when the costs of repairing your unit are more than 50 percent of a new system, it’s usually best to replace the unit. Expert technicians can help you determine the best solution for your unit.
Increased Energy Bills
Texas boasts some of the hottest summer temperatures in the United States. As a result, you will typically see fluctuations in your energy bills as the outside temperatures begin to climb. With more demand for your AC system, your energy use will increase. However, if you find that your energy bills are running unusually high for the summer, it could signal that your AC unit isn’t running efficiently anymore.
If your air conditioning is inefficient, it will have to work harder and run for a longer period to try and maintain the temperature in your house. You could also notice that your cold air isn’t as cold, and your indoor temperature has significant variations. As a result of inefficiency, you could see a steady increase in your energy bills. If this is the case, it might mean that you should consider a replacement air conditioning unit. You can work with a professional HVAC technician to troubleshoot and diagnose the problem.
As the Texas summer heats up, the last thing that you want to deal with is AC issues. Maintaining your air conditioner will help mitigate any minor issues. However, if you have an aging and inefficient unit, it could create uncomfortable indoor temperatures, spikes in energy bills, and lead to multiple costly repairs. If you are fighting these problems, it might be time to explore the need for a new unit.