How Often Should You Replace Your AC Unit in Vero Beach, FL?

Do you need a new air conditioning system? Call our team at Bates Air & Heat LLC at 772-837-5109 to schedule a service!

How can you tell whether your air conditioning system needs a repair or an entire replacement? Regular maintenance can help supplement the functionality of older air conditioners, but sometimes, expensive repairs can get too much for a budget.

If you're asking, "How often should you replace your AC unit?" then allow Bates Air & Heat LLC, a professional HVAC company in Vero Beach, to answer this and more for you below.

How Often Should You Replace Your AC Unit?

On average, an air conditioning unit will last between 10 and 15 years. However, the life expectancy of your system will depend on the make, model, usage, and condition of your unit, as well as how much routine maintenance you invest in.

Signs You Should Replace Your Air Conditioning System

When your air conditioner isn't working like it's supposed to, you might wonder whether it's best to repair or replace it. Regardless, understanding the signs is the first step toward getting a more comfortable home. If your air conditioner is doing any of the following, it may be time to schedule a service.

It Doesn't Cool Your Home

If your unit isn't fully cooling your home, chances are your home HVAC system is due for an upgrade. A lack of cooling where there should be cold air spells a problem with your unit, one that might resolve if you make a repair. A professional who takes a look at your AC unit may be able to reason out what's causing the disruption, whether it's a faulty setting with your thermostat or a blocked air filter.

It Frequently Shuts Down

Frequent shutdowns and startups may be evidence of short cycling, an issue that necessitates a repair. Short cycling is when the AC unit shuts down and starts off more frequently than normal because it thinks it has sufficiently cooled down the room. Most of the time, short cycling doesn't result in a cold room but rather in a room where the cooling unit is restarting so frequently that nothing gets cool.

It Causes Your Energy Bill To Rise

How often should you replace your AC unit if you have rising energy bills? A faulty air conditioner will inevitably cause your energy bill to go up.

If your AC unit is short-cycling, cooling ineffectively, or running oddly, it may run for much longer. An unit blocked up by dust or broken internally can be more expensive to use. A dirty unit can also impact your home's indoor air quality.

It Makes Odd Noises

Odd noises spouting from any part of your HVAC system indicate a problem. If you're hearing odd noises from your unit, there may be something wrong with the motor, fan, or other critical components that can't wait for repair. Leaving loud noises unattended can damage your system, which is why it's crucial to have a professional inspect your system when you notice something wrong.

It's Old

If you have an AC unit that's still working well after 10 years, it may be time to consider a replacement. Most old AC units have a lower SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) than others, making them less effective for bigger households. If your model is too small or too old for your floorspace, it may not be effectively cooling your entire home.

Pay close attention to how well your AC unit cools the home, especially for areas like outer rooms and guest rooms. If your old unit can't keep up, it's likely time for a replacement.

Should You Replace or Repair Your AC Unit?

Now that you understand the answer to "How often should you replace your AC unit?" next comes the question of repairing vs. replacing. While repairs can help save money, a brand-new unit with can last in your home for many more years. If you're still unsure whether you should repair or replace, consider replacing if:

• Your home is too warm: If you've fixed or replaced your air conditioner and still find that your home is too warm, it may be time to find a replacement. A warm house, despite a fully functioning cooling system, indicates that the unit is too small for your home. 
• Your AC unit is small: If you know that your air conditioner can only cool down so many rooms effectively, why not opt for one that can refresh your entire home? Having an air conditioning unit that's too small for a home can not only be inconvenient for the household but also damaging for the unit.
• You've recently repaired your air conditioner: If you had a professional repair your unit, and it still malfunctions, it may be time to replace the unit altogether. 

What To Consider When Replacing Your AC Unit

If you're considering a new AC unit, there may be a few other things you'll want to consider as you go about your purchase:

• Home size: If your home is too big for your unit, this could cause it to run endlessly, which isn't good for the internal parts. If your home is too small for the unit, you may pay more than you need for a quality air conditioner.
• Maintenance plan: Invest in a maintenance plan to avoid bottlenecks during operation. Professionals suggest giving your unit a maintenance check twice yearly.
• SEER rating: Choose a SEER rating appropriate for your home to get the most out of an AC unit appropriately sized for your living space.

Consult Bates Air & Heat LLC for Professional AC Installation Services Today

Now that you know the answer to the question, "How often should you replace your AC unit?" why not get a new one with our AC buyers guide from the professionals today? With Bates Air & Heat LLC, you'll receive quality HVAC service for a fraction of the price. To get in touch with us, call 772-837-5109 for more information.