Three Indicators A Homeowner Needs AC Replacement

How to Know When To Replace An Air Conditioner 

Summer is practically here, which means people in this area have a greater dependence on their home air conditioners. Since air conditioners reduce humidity and heat, they play a dual role in this area, creating a much more comfortable space within the home. Since homeowners are so reliant on these devices, they need to make sure that theirs is ready for the summer or be ready to pursue air conditioning replacement.

Clues from Smells and Sounds

If the air conditioning is working properly, the indoor air quality will be obvious in the temperature, lack of humidity, and the fresh smell. When something is wrong, the likelihood of foul odors entering is higher. Strange or unusual sounds may also be a part of the warning signs. Keep reading for a few more specific details.

• Musty Smells: This can mean the presence of mold or mildew in the ducts. While this may be able to be fixed by air duct cleaning, the root of the problem may be that the condenser may not be working as well as it should to cool the air and dry it out. This excess moisture may signal a larger problem.
• Burning Smells: A scent of burning plastic or a similar foul smell can result from an electrical problem that needs immediate attention.
• Scratching Sounds: This could be due to obstruction in the ducts but also due to pests moving in. 
• Whistling or Hissing: This can indicate a damaged duct or a coolant leak. If it is a coolant issue, the whole unit will likely need to be replaced. 

While these may not all indicate that the whole unit needs to be replaced, any signs invite investigation and should be looked into promptly, especially since a summer without AC can be brutal.

Clues from the Utility Bill

Age is a factor in how well it functions when it comes to any appliance. An HVAC unit is no different. The energy efficiency that the unit once had may be gone. When the unit is no longer energy efficient, the household will likely see a spike in the energy bill. If a home’s utility bill has gone way up without a clear explanation, there may need to be an AC replacement. Even if the unit is working relatively well, there are other issues that a homeowner may encounter, such as a lack of availability of parts for an older unit or the repair cost being nearly as high as purchasing a new unit.

Clues from Airflow

When an air conditioning unit is on, a steady stream of cool air should come from it. If the airflow is affected in any of the following ways, it may be a sign that the unit is giving out.

• Warm air blowing
• Low airflow
• Intermittent airflow

About Cleary Plumbing & Air

The BBB-accredited Cleary Plumbing & Air has served West Palm Beach, FL, and the surrounding areas for over 25 years. They offer 24/7 service and honest pricing. Call today for AC service!

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