Temperatures may still be mild for now, but our hot spring weather will be here soon enough. When it arrives, you’ll want to make sure that your air conditioning system is ready to handle the heat. If you haven’t done so already, now is the perfect time to schedule maintenance for your air conditioner.
But what if your AC has been struggling recently? If you’ve found its performance to be less than stellar, and your home comfort and utility bills have been paying the price, it could be time for an air conditioning replacement. Here are the signs that mean your cooling system may not be ready for the lengthy cooling season ahead.
Signs Your AC’s Age Could Cost You This Summer
Although it depends on many different factors such as if you’ve had your AC maintained every year, the average AC system is designed to last for 10-15 years. But even the most well-cared-for air conditioning system will need to be replaced when it gets too old.
If your AC is at the tail end of this age range (or is older than 15 years), it’s almost certainly going to be more expensive for you to maintain and repair than it would be to purchase a new system. It may be working, but we can guess it’s not working very well. In the long run, you’re going to be dealing with frequent air conditioning repair needs and an inefficient system that costs a lot in utilities.
Why Your AC Is Driving Up Energy Costs
Speaking of high utility bills, this is something you should keep an eye on if you have a system within the 10-15-year age range. A spike in utility costs will occur when your AC system is worn down to the point that its efficiency is negatively affected. As the efficiency of your AC system drops, your AC must run longer to achieve the same temperature.
This longer run time is what can cause your utility bills to spike. If your system is younger than 10 years old, this is something that can possibly be fixed. The best thing to do if you notice an unexplained increase in your utility costs is to schedule an appointment with our professionals to determine how often air conditioners need service.
Frequent AC Repairs: When to Consider Replacement
Repairs are inevitable with any HVAC system but there’s a big difference between needing an occasional fix and needing to repair it 2-3 times a year. Frequent repair needs are the result of increasing wear and tear on the various parts of your AC system.
If you’re experiencing an increase in the number of repairs it needs, your AC is breaking down to the point that it just makes more financial sense to replace it. This is particularly true if your next repair is going to cost half of what it would to purchase a new system especially if you’ve been hearing unusual noises from your air conditioner that indicate deeper mechanical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Should I schedule air conditioner maintenance before the hot season in Orlando?
Answer: Yes. It’s best to schedule your AC maintenance while it’s mild, typically in spring, so the unit is ready for the long, hot season. This improves efficiency, prevents breakdowns, and makes it easier to book a technician.
Question: How do I know if my Orlando AC isn’t ready for the heat?
Answer: Warning signs include an older unit, usually 10 to 15 years old, rising energy bills, or frequent repairs. These issues often indicate declining efficiency and reliability.
Question: Why is spring the ideal time to service your AC?
Answer: During spring, your system may have built up dust or debris while idle. Servicing it early helps prevent problems, improves airflow, and keeps cooling costs lower before summer temperatures arrive.
Question: Can DIY maintenance help keep my AC efficient for Orlando summers?
Answer: Yes. Changing filters regularly and keeping the outdoor unit clear of debris can help maintain efficiency. However, technical work like cleaning coils or checking refrigerant should be handled by professionals.
Still not sure that your AC is ready for the heat? Reach out to our team for an honest and expert opinion on the best course of action for your home comfort.
Contact Gary Munson Heating & Air Conditioning for air conditioning repair in Orlando, FL. You will be more comfortable with the best!