Few things are more important than your air conditioner, especially in North Texas. Knowing how long your air conditioning system will last and how to extend that timeline will save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in the long run. Keep reading to find out what you can expect from a new air conditioning unit and how to get the most out of your old one.
Schedule an Appointment
Lifespan Of An Air Conditioner
In many cases, your air conditioning system will already have some wear and tear before you move into the home. While it may not matter too much, it could benefit you to look at when the AC unit was installed. In more temperate areas, an air conditioner can expect 15-20 years of service, but that's not always the case in places with extreme weather. Dramatic temperature changes, massive hail, nasty storms, humidity, and extreme winds take their toll on your air conditioner's life expectancy; so, prepare for a replacement in 10-15 years if this sounds like your situation.
Nobody wants to foot the bill for a new air conditioner, so the real question is, how do you know when it's time to replace your unit?
Experiencing Frequent Repairs?
When air conditioning units start going down more often, it's a tell-tale sign that your air conditioner is in trouble. If you have properly serviced the unit and the repair costs keep on coming, it may be time to request an installation quote. At a certain point, maintenance fees and repair parts overwhelm the cost of a new air conditioning unit; so you might as well take advantage of an energy-efficient system.
Struggling To Keep Up
If your air conditioner is having a hard time keeping up with the intense heat we experience every year, even after regular maintenance, you may have passed the system's peak performance period. When a unit reaches the end of its life, it will stress excessively, causing it to constantly run without ever properly cooling.
Increasing Energy Bills
When your AC unit starts to constantly run, it causes the system to use much more energy. Cooling systems are one of the home's most draining electronics, so the more your's runs, the higher your electrical bill will be.
Caring For Your Air Conditioner
A home's AC unit is vital and so is its maintenance schedule. To maximize the efficiency of your air conditioner and keep it around longer, you should service the system every six months. Letting a local AC system expert do their checks and maintenance can keep your AC air conditioner in good health and as efficient as possible. Air conditioning service includes:
Electrical Connection Inspection:
An air conditioning expert should always inspect, clean, and tighten electrical connections when applicable to keep your unit functioning safely. Keeping the connections tightened and free of corrosion will increase the lifespan of your air conditioner by reducing resistance and ensuring that you have constant contact between the wiring and the unit.Thermostat Calibration:
Without an accurately calibrated thermostat, air conditioners are much less effective. By ensuring that the temperature readings in your home are completely accurate, the air conditioner can do a better job at keeping your home cool.Air Filter Maintenance:
During your maintenance, the HVAC professional will be replacing or cleaning your air filter. Doing this improves your airflow, improves indoor air quality, and reduces the number of particulates in the cooling system.Air Conditioner Lubrication :
To reduce the wear and tear your air conditioning system is put through, your professional will apply a thin layer of lubricant to moving components. This helps the system perform without resistance and limits deterioration.Inspecting The Operating Cycle :
By making sure that your system cycles on and off properly, your HVAC professional can make sure the system is working effectively. Improper cycling can make the whole system less efficient, wasting electricity and causing the unit to unnecessarily stress.Component Cleaning :
Key components in an air conditioner should be cleaned periodically, including the evaporator coil, condenser, fins, and air compressor.
Time To Replace Your Air Conditioner
Once you and your AC expert have concluded that it's time for a new AC unit, you'll need to select a unit. More often than not, your new unit will be comparable to the existing system, but a different size may be recommended to provide the highest efficiency. While an oversized AC system will provide easy cooling, it will come with a higher operating cost. Air conditioners that are too small will constantly strain, cutting the life span of your system and hiking up your electric bill once again. Finding the ideal cooling system for your home will save money and help you keep the perfect temperature in the brutal summer months.
Get Quoted For A New AC Unit
Air conditioners are expensive to repair or replace, but running an inefficient cooling system will cost you far more in the long run. While regular tune-ups and repairs will prolong the life span of your AC system, all good things must come to an end and sometimes it's for the better. A new Air conditioner can limit excess humidity, keep a more consistent temperature, and drastically improve your home's energy efficiency. Call today and receive a quote from North Texas' HVAC system expert.
