When should I replace my old AC unit? There are many reasons to consider replacing your old-fashioned A/C with a newer, energy-efficient model. The first reason is to help the environment. According to the EPA, 1 ton of refrigeration emits 2,300 pounds of carbon dioxide and nearly 4,000 pounds of methane into the atmosphere every year. And that’s just for one A/C unit.
Perhaps more importantly, your old AC might not be as efficient or effective as newer models. For example, some cooling units are now able to cool a room using only 43% of the energy used by older air conditioners! For every three hours your old A/C runs, it will use more energy than a new model would in an entire day.
And of course, the upfront cost of purchasing an AC is usually much higher for older models. So why not replace your old air conditioner with a newer, more efficient one?
While there are many reasons to replace your old A/C, you must buy the right one. Don’t just rush out and purchase the cheapest model. Remember, some models are more efficient than others, so you should do some research before buying a new unit for your home.
Guide When Buying A New AC Unit
Many people assume they know what AC unit is best for their home. This leads to them installing an AC unit that doesn’t meet all of their needs or worst, buying a defective AC unit. They also assume they can install it on their own with little trouble or expense. The truth of the matter is that most homeowners are not well-versed in air conditioners, so it is best to learn the AC repair process and leave the task up to a professional AC technician.
The first issue for homeowners attempting to install an AC unit is that there are three main types of units. They are split systems, central systems, and mini-splits. Many people think they are all the same thing, but this is not the case at all. A local AC technician will be able to determine which type of AC unit is best for your home.
Is Repairing Your AC Necessary?
An air conditioner is a unit used to cool indoor spaces, especially during hot weather. Air conditioning has become an essential feature of our houses and offices as it helps us maintain the optimum temperature indoors. It prevents heat stroke and other related issues suffered by people working and living in hot climates.
But sometimes it is not necessary to replace an old air conditioner with a new one. A malfunctioning AC can be repaired inexpensively without investing too much money in replacing the unit. Here are some signs that your AC needs repairs:
- If you hear strange sounds coming from the outside portion of your AC or you can’t find the cause of the noise. If you hear any sort of sound coming from the unit, turn it off immediately and try to find out what is causing the problem by listening to it carefully.
- Air conditioners run on electricity so if there is a power outage in your area, chances are your unit will not be able to function properly. Also, if there is a spike in the power bill, it may indicate that your AC isn’t functioning efficiently.
- Another sign is the slow cooling of the house or office space even after running the AC all day long. If you notice that your AC is taking longer than usual to cool your house, it is time to call an expert.