AC units are robust, but they do not last forever, so it is important to know when yours needs to be replaced. If your unit is over fifteen years old, then it will likely need to be changed because age will have taken its toll on the unit’s durability, even if the AC has been well-maintained. However, age is not the only factor to consider. 

Tell-tale signs that something is wrong with your current AC unit include leaking, a build-up of moisture, strange grinding or rattling sounds, and a burning smell when switched on. A build-up of dust in your home can also indicate that something is wrong with your air conditioner because the unit should provide ventilation. 

An accumulation of dust suggests that your system is inefficient. Some AC units use up an excess of energy when they are struggling, which will manifest in high energy bills, so it is always worth keeping an eye on your bills for a sudden surge in cost as this could be caused by your AC.

What To Consider When Buying A New AC Unit

When considering something as important and costly as purchasing a new air conditioner, it is beneficial to consult an AC technician. Getting advice from a professional will ensure you are aware of all your options and can choose an AC unit that is right for your home. An AC technician would also be able to identify any problems with your current unit and give you maintenance advice for your new air conditioner. 

AC technicians are trained in installation and repairs, so you would be able to employ the same technician to install your new air conditioner, which means you can rest assured that the unit has been properly set up ready for use. It may also be more cost-effective to call a professional AC technician to help you choose the new air conditioner because their advice can help you find the best quality unit for the best price.

Should You Replace or Repair Your AC Unit

However, not every faulty air conditioner needs replacing. For some, it is simply a case of employing an AC technician to come to the house and repair any faults, more about this topic. A unit with multiple faults or a unit that is approaching the end of its approximate lifespan will likely need replacing because otherwise, the costs of repair can quickly pile up, but an air conditioner with only a minor problem can almost always be salvaged when that problem is repaired. It is always worth having leaks, moisture build-ups, unusual noises, and unpleasant smells investigated by a professional because paying for those smaller issues to be repaired will cost a lot less than purchasing an entirely new unit. 

An AC unit should remain functional for at least fifteen years, so a unit that is only a few years old experiencing problems suggests that something is very wrong with your system. Having a technician look at it is preferable in this situation too, rather than immediately purchasing a new one, because this is an uncommon occurrence for AC units. 

Even though the repair could be costly, it likely will not cost as much as a new air conditioner, especially on top of the money spent on the current system just a few years earlier. A professional AC technician is the right person to advise you on whether you should repair or replace it, but it is up to you to decide which option is more cost-effective and will benefit your home in the present and the future.