Climate control is something we all value at home, and our air conditioning system is a major player in maintaining comfort all year round. Like any appliance though, air conditioners age and eventually run on borrowed time. Yes, regular maintenance will help prolong its lifespan, but the time will come when you’ll need to replace your air conditioner.
Now you might feel that replacing your air conditioning system is a big and expensive undertaking, but hanging on to an old, inefficient unit can cost you more in the long run. So let’s look at five common indicators that suggest it’s time to throw your old aircon on the metaphorical scrap heap and upgrade to a newer, more efficient model.
Be on the lookout for these warning signs!
Sign 1: Your Air Conditioner is Over 15-20 Years Old
Air conditioners typically have a lifespan of around 15 to 20 years. If your system is nearing this age range or has maybe even exceeded it, it’s likely time for an upgrade.
There are many valid reasons to replace an ageing air conditioner:
- They become increasingly inefficient.
- The growing inefficiency typically attracts higher energy bills.
- They’re more prone to breakdowns and costly repairs.
A new air conditioning model generally offers greater energy efficiency, which can save you a bundle on running costs. If you find your unit getting to an age where it’d be not far from driving and voting if it were human, it might be time to think about buying a new aircon.
Sign 2: Rising Energy Bills
Speaking of running costs, have you found your energy bills consistently rising even though your air conditioner usage has remained the same? Aside from general energy cost increases across the board, this can also point to a system gradually losing its efficiency.
With each hour, each day and each year we use our air conditioning systems, they experience more wear and tear on their internal components. This results in them working harder to keep providing the same level of cooling. Working harder means they use more energy which means higher energy bills.
Heating and cooling our homes can account for anywhere between 20-50% of our energy use. If your aircon is driving up your energy bills, it might be time to consider replacing it. Making the switch to an updated, energy-efficient system will help keep your bills under control while keeping your home cool and comfortable.
Sign 3: Constant Repairs
When your air con starts to malfunction more regularly than work perfectly, it’s likely telling you the time has come to put it out to pasture.
If you’re calling out an aircon technician so frequently that you’re on a first-name basis with them, you may have inadvertently made yourself a new friend – which is lovely – but at a potentially great financial cost. While you can certainly expect the occasional repair, constant issues suggest your system can no longer keep up. Regular repairs can quickly get expensive and sometimes outweigh the cost of a new unit altogether.
Sometimes it’s important to know when to stop applying the proverbial bandaids on your air conditioner and start shopping around for a new and reliable system. It will not only spare you the stress of constant repairs but will also provide greater energy efficiency.
Sign 4: Inconsistent Cooling or Hot Spots
Have you noticed certain rooms in your home feel cooler than others, or some areas remain warm despite the air conditioner running? This patchiness in cooling is a common sign that your system is no longer as efficient as it once was.
As air conditioners get older, keeping consistent temperatures becomes more of a struggle. This may be due to natural wear and tear on key components, or the system simply being no longer able to distribute air evenly throughout your home.
If your air conditioner cannot provide consistent cooling, it’s likely no longer up to the task and needs replacing. Upgrading to a newer model is your best chance at bringing uniform comfort back to your home.
Sign 5: Strange Noises or Smells
A perfectly working air conditioner should provide quality cooling comfort in summer without any strange smells or noises. So if you do experience either coming from your aircon, something clearly isn’t quite right.
Loose or worn-out components inside your system result in a cacophony of unwanted grinding, banging or squealing sounds. Don’t ignore these noises – they’re often major warning signs of serious and expensive mechanical problems. If your air conditioning unit emits strange musty or burning smells, you might be dealing with mould growth or electrical problems.
Strange noises and odours can lead to possible health risks or even aircon system failure. If your unit is making odd sounds or emitting unpleasant smells, it’s time to consider replacing it with a new model before the issues get any worse.
Why You Need A Licensed Technician
If you think replacing your air conditioner is a simple DIY job, think again. You’ll need a licensed heating and cooling technician to get the job done. They will:
- Possess the requisite knowledge and skills to manage the complexity of air conditioning systems and their installation effectively.
- Install your new system correctly for maximum efficiency and longevity.
- Recommend the most suitable system size and type to meet your needs.
- Comply with strict safety regulations and warranty conditions.
It’s also worth noting that only a licensed technician is qualified to handle, and have access to, the refrigerant gases essential to your air conditioner doing its job.
Ready to Upgrade Your Air Conditioner?
If your air conditioner shows any of the five signs we’ve explored, now is probably the time to consider a replacement.
Keeping an old and inefficient system can cost you more in energy bills and frequent repairs, and leave your home feeling unnecessarily uncomfortable. Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient system will not only save you money in the long run but also ensure reliable, consistent cooling for years to come.
Don’t wait until your current system breaks down completely – take action now to enjoy a more comfortable and cost-effective cooling solution in your home.
