HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN IT IS TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR AC?

May 5, 2023 | AC, Air Conditioner, Air Conditioning System, Cooling Unit, Energy Bills, Financing, Lifespan, Ohio, R22, Refrigerant, Springboro, Upgrade

 

With the arrival of sunshine and consistent weather, this is a sure sign that it’s time to ensure your air conditioning system is up-to-date and ready to withstand the upcoming summer months. If you own an older AC unit that isn’t running as well or is on its last legs, are you sure your AC will be able to keep your home cool throughout all those hot days? 

Making the choice between repairing or replacing your AC can be a difficult one, and we understand how daunting it can be. But Springboro Heating & Cooling is here for you! As your local heating and cooling professionals, our goal is to provide you with all of the necessary information so that you can make an informed decision about what’s best for both you and your family.  

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN IT IS TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR AC?   

You Have an Older Air Conditioner:   

Are you aware of how long your current air conditioner has been in use? Normally, the life expectancy for an AC unit is 12-17 years. This timeframe can vary depending on the care given to it throughout its lifetime – similar to a car. Regular inspections, upkeep, and maintenance will play a large role in determining how long an AC system stays functional. 

You Experience Irregular Temperatures:   

Air conditioning systems are created to not only cool your home but also maintain an ideal temperature. Though you may experience a delightful chill when first turning on the AC, if it isn’t able to regulate that set temperature properly, then all of that hard work will be undone in no time. So, if you find yourself frequently adjusting the thermostat or struggling with inconsistent temperatures, this is indicative of an air conditioner past its prime. 

You Have to Do Constant Repairs:   

While it may be more cost-effective to repair your air conditioner in the short term, if you have to do this multiple times, those costs can quickly add up. Not only that but repairing a unit doesn’t always guarantee its longevity; eventually, it will need replacing anyway! It’s important to take into account all of the costs associated with upgrading versus multiple repairs. So, don’t let upfront prices alone sway your final decision. Be sure to factor all costs into your overall decision. 

You Have High Monthly Energy Bills:   

Do your energy bills keep going up each month, no matter what you do? Well, industry standards state that it’s typical for cooling units to take up to 46% of an overall monthly energy bill. Don’t worry, though – as an air conditioner runs, it accumulates wear and tear over time which diminishes its cooling efficiency. This means your AC will have to work harder in order to maintain the desired temperature inside your home, resulting in a higher energy bill each month. So, if your AC is taking more than the normal percentage of your overall energy bills, then maybe it is indeed time for an upgrade. 

You Need R22 Refrigerant:   

Outdated cooling systems often require the use of R22 refrigerant, which has been banned by the EPA for its adverse effects on our ozone layer. Hence, when it’s time to refill your air conditioner with freon, and you can no longer access this substance, you may find yourself in a dilemma to find an appropriate replacement that also adheres to current regulations. This could prove both costly and challenging. This potential expenditure should also be taken into account while making your decision. 

Despite this, there is still a bright side! If you select a modern and energy-efficient air conditioner, it will be deemed more eco-friendly as fewer carbon emissions are let out into the atmosphere, ultimately resulting in an improved environment for your family to thrive in. That sounds like something worth considering! 

We hope this has given you some insight into the factors to consider when upgrading your AC unit. If you would like additional information or require a free estimate with one of our NATE-certified practitioners, we’d be delighted to assist you! You can call Springboro Heating & Cooling at (937) 600-6834 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here