A properly functioning air conditioning system is essential for homeowners in the Denver area. Temperatures regularly hit the mid to high 90s, and this will transform your home into a virtual oven without proper cooling. When properly maintained, your air conditioning system can last for many years. However, it’s not going to last forever and at some point, it will need to be replaced.
If your air conditioning system isn’t working properly, it may be unclear whether it simply needs to be repaired or it’s time for a new system. The following signs are typically an indication that it’s time to replace your air conditioning system.
Understanding Your AC’s SOS Signals
Your home air conditioning system is not immune to aging and wear and tear. In fact, it’s often those very factors that create the warning signs that your system is ready to be replaced. The key is recognizing these signals. Here are the top five signs that your AC might be nearing the end of its lifespan:
- Unusual noises or odors
- Inconsistent cooling or frequent cycling
- Blowing warm air
- Age of the system
- Increase in energy bills
Unusual Noises or Odors
If your AC unit starts to sound like a jet engine or emits odors that don’t match the freshness of the air it’s supposed to be circulating, it’s likely trying to tell you something isn’t quite right. Rattling, buzzing, or grinding noises often indicate loose or damaged parts, while pungent odors can be a red flag for mold, wire burnout, or even a critter that’s taken up residence inside your unit. These issues may require you to replace your air conditioning system.
Inconsistent Cooling or Frequent Cycling
Is your home becoming hard to keep comfortable due to your air conditioning’s erratic performance? If your AC seems to be cycling on and off more often than it used to, or if some rooms stay frigid while others feel like a heat wave, your system might be struggling to maintain consistent airflow or temperature. This could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat or a failing compressor. Often, upgrading to a new system may be the best solution, especially if the compressor is causing the problem.
Blowing Warm Air
When an AC unit starts blowing air that’s the same temperature as the room – or worse yet, hotter – it is a clear indication of a serious problem with the refrigerant or a malfunction in the compressor, and it’s a sign you may need to replace the entire system.
Age of the System
Just like any other piece of equipment, an AC system has a finite lifespan. Most units start to degrade significantly after 10-15 years, even with regular maintenance. If yours is in that age range, it’s time to start weighing the cost of continued repairs against the investment in a new, more reliable system.
Increase in Energy Bills
If your utility bills are climbing without a corresponding increase in usage, your AC system might be the culprit. Older, inefficient systems must work harder and longer to provide the same level of comfort, which translates to higher energy costs for you. Upgrading to a more energy-efficient model can potentially save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
The Risks of Ignoring AC Issues
It can often be tempting to procrastinate or justify waiting to replace your air conditioning system until next season, but the risks of ignoring your AC’s warning signs are significant and potentially expensive. Here’s why failing to address issues with your home cooling system can be problematic:
- Impact on indoor air quality
- Potential for major breakdowns and costly repairs
Impact on Indoor Air Quality
Your AC does more than just cool the air; it also plays a critical role in filtering out allergens, pollutants, and contaminants. When it’s not working properly, your indoor air quality can suffer, leading to health issues for you and your family. Often, replacing your air conditioning system is a critical step to restoring proper air quality.
Potential for Major Breakdowns and Costly Repairs
That strange noise or occasional surge of hot air could be just the beginning. Ignoring these early warning signs can lead to catastrophic failures that demand immediate—and expensive—repairs. Often, simply replacing your system when these signs first appear will be the most cost-effective approach, and it will eliminate the risk of a complete breakdown that causes you to endure uncomfortably hot conditions in your home.
Benefits of Upgrading to a New AC System
The idea of replacing your AC system might initially seem like a financial and logistical headache, but the benefits of doing so will often far outweigh the drawbacks. Here’s what you stand to gain by investing in a new air conditioning system:
- Improved energy efficiency and cost savings
- Enhanced home comfort and air quality
- Access to the latest technology and features
Improved Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Modern air conditioning systems are designed to be much more energy efficient than their predecessors. Upgrading to a new system can lead to significant savings on your monthly energy bills, as well as potential tax credits or utility company incentives for installing eco-friendly models.
Enhanced Home Comfort and Air Quality
New AC systems don’t just cool more efficiently; they also come with advanced filtration systems that can improve the overall air quality in your home. Variable-speed air handlers can also provide more consistent temperatures and better humidity control, creating a more comfortable living environment.
Access to the Latest Technology and Features
Today’s air conditioning systems come with a host of features that improve functionality, convenience, and control. Programmable thermostats, smart home integration, and even zoning systems that allow you to control temperatures in different areas of your home all represent significant upgrades over older models.
How to Choose the Right AC System
Selecting a new air conditioning system can be a daunting task, but approaching it methodically will ensure that you find the right match for your space and your budget. Here are the factors to consider during the selection process:
- Size
- Energy efficiency
- Budget considerations
- Professional consultation and installation
Size Matters
When it comes to air conditioning systems, size is more than just a number; it’s a critical factor in determining efficiency and performance:
- An oversized unit will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to wasted energy and premature wear
- A unit that’s too small will struggle to cool your residential or commercial space adequately
A professional assessment of your home’s size and layout is essential in determining the correct size air conditioning system for you.
Energy Efficiency
Look for new air conditioning systems with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit. This equates to lower energy costs. You should also consider ENERGY STAR certified models, which meet high standards for efficiency set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Budget Considerations
Cost is certainly a consideration when choosing a new air conditioning system, and it’s important to stay within your budget. However, that doesn’t mean you should simply opt for the cheapest model available, nor should price be your primary consideration. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a higher upfront price for a more efficient system can often be more cost effective in the long run due to reduced energy bills and fewer repair costs.
Professional Consultation and Installation
Choosing and installing an AC system is not a DIY job. It requires expertise and experience to ensure the system is properly sized, installed, and set up for optimal performance. Professional installation also often includes a warranty for the unit and can be crucial for maintaining it in the future.
Major Heating and Air Conditioning Can Help
If you need to replace your air conditioning system, Major Heating and Air Conditioning can help. We’ve been the go-to HVAC contractor in the Denver area since 1970, and our team possesses the experience necessary to ensure you install the right system to optimize your home’s comfort during the hot summer months.
Our team offers both residential and commercial air conditioning replacement and installation services. We can replace just about any system you may have, and we offer a wide range of options, including the latest and most advanced energy efficient systems. Our team will work with you to determine the best option to achieve your goals while staying within your budget. You’ll also enjoy exceptional customer service throughout the entire process.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Major Heating and Air Conditioning serves customers in Denver and the surrounding areas of Colorado.
