Air conditioning is something many homeowners take for granted. They don’t think about it until it goes out. At that point, they’re desperate to get it reinstated. There’s nothing worse than wet humidity and scorching heap seeping into a living area.
Don’t let that happen to you! Know the signs that your air conditioning is going to go out before it’s too late. Here are some indicators that your air conditioning is on the last leg.
1. High Energy Bills
The increased energy bills that come with a dying air conditioning unit are usually steady and small. You might not realize that you’re paying so much more unless you compare it to your bill from last year. The difference can be shocking!
In some cases, the increase can be sudden and significant. At that point, you’re dealing with a quickly deteriorating unit, and it’s time to replace it as soon as possible.
2. Freon
Many homes contain air conditioners that use R-22 Freon as the main cooling agent. However, the federal government is quickly phasing out R-22 Freon units because it’s less efficient. Because of that, Freon can be very expensive, and when it needs repairs, it can cost a fortune.
When your R-22 Freon AC unit breaks down, instead of replacing the Freon, consider purchasing a new unit that uses R410A. This is more efficient and effective.
3. Leaking Unit
If you’ve noticed any moisture and leakage around the unit, it could indicate there’s a problem. AC units can have mild condensation or small spots of water around them when it’s very hot–that simply means that the unit is working hard.
However, large pools of water indicate a serious issue that you’ll want to service right away. It might mean that the AC unit is on its last leg, and it could result in further damage and mold growth that can even cause health issues.
4. Funny Noises
When the air kicks on, it’s not uncommon to hear a quiet noise when the air flows through the vents. Strange, loud noises, on the other hand, could mean that there’s a problem with the motor. Broken bearings or other malfunctions can burn up the engine. At that point, it’s better to replace the air conditioning unit than repair it.
5. 10 Years Old
The typical AC unit is only good for about 10 years. Some higher-end units will last 15 years or a few after, but at that point, they usually start to lose their oomph. Not only is the motor likely to go out, but it’s also significantly less energy efficient costing you more.
When the 10-15 year mark rolls around, it’s time to consider replacing your unit before it goes out. Use this opportunity to upgrade to a newer, more efficient unit.
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