Air conditioners are some of the most overlooked appliances in homes. Most people don’t notice issues with their cooling equipment until it is too late. Fortunately, there are many warning signs you can rely on to determine if your aging or faulty AC unit needs to be replaced. Some of them are discussed here.
1. Excessive Noise
Loud screeching or banging noises may indicate that your AC has rattling components or loose belts. It may also indicate that the motor is having issues and needs to be checked. A motor may fail due to routine wear and tear after years of constant use.
2. Reduced Performance
You know you need to replace your air conditioner if it is blowing tepid air and not able to keep the indoor temperature at a desirable level. A lot of factors can lead to reduced performance, including the age of the unit.
The components of an old unit are not as efficient as those of a new AC. It’s advisable that you replace your air conditioner if its performance seems to have significantly reduced over time.
3. Leaking or Moisture Buildup
While air conditioners often create moisture at some point, those that are efficient normally handle the situation easily. An old AC or one with a refrigerant leak is likely to have problems getting rid of moisture.
Regardless of the cause, it is imperative that you have your air conditioner replaced. That is because allowing moisture to build up in your home can lead to mold growth, which can cause a health concern to you and your family.
4. Skyrocketing Energy Bills
One of the factors that can lead to an increase in energy bills is a faulty air conditioner that is working too hard to keep the temperature in your home at the desired level. Even worse, your AC may be consuming a lot more energy yet failing to do its work.
If you notice an increase in your electric bills, you should have a technician check your air conditioner and determine if it is the culprit. If this turns out to be so, then you may need to bring in a new one.
5. Foul Odor
Like strange noises, foul odors may indicate that something is seriously wrong with your air conditioner. A good AC should produce clean and neutral-smelling air. If your unit if it is putting out a bothersome musty smell or a burning odor, something is seriously wrong. At the very least, the equipment needs to be inspected, and it may need to be upgraded.
If you notice one or two of the warning signs above, the best thing to do is to contact your local HVAC resource. A technician will inspect your AC and let you know if it needs to be replaced. Call us at Big Sky today for professional AC repair and replacement in Helena, MT.