Is It Time for an AC Upgrade?

As the weather gets hotter, you may find yourself relying more and more on your air conditioner to keep cool. But if your AC is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Today’s AC units are more energy-efficient than ever, meaning they can save you money on your electric bill. They’re also better at regulating the humidity, so you can say goodbye to that sticky feeling in your home.

If you’re not sure whether it’s time for an AC upgrade, there are a few things to look for.

Table of Contents

Check Your AC Unit’s SEER Rating

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a measure of how much energy your AC uses. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient your AC is. If your AC is more than 12 years old, it probably has a SEER rating of only about 13. But today’s models have SEER ratings of 20 or more. So if you do the math, upgrading to a newer model could save you a lot on your energy bills.

Efficient Air Service professionals note that an AC’s efficiency also degrades over time as the unit collects dirt and debris, parts begin to wear out, and refrigerant levels decline. If you have an older unit that is no longer cooling your home as efficiently as it used to, it may be time for an upgrade. While the initial cost of a new unit may be higher than simply repairing your old one, you’ll likely see significant savings on your energy bills over time.

Take a Look at Your Electric Bills

If you’ve noticed a steady increase in your monthly electric bills, it could be a sign that your current AC unit is no longer as energy-efficient as it once was. In fact, an outdated or inefficient AC unit can cost you hundreds of dollars in energy costs every year. If you’re looking to save money on your energy bills, upgrading to a newer, more efficient AC unit is a great place to start.

Over the years you’ve used your AC unit, you should already have an idea of how much your monthly electric bill typically costs. If you see a sudden spike in energy costs, it’s likely that your AC unit is to blame. Take a look at your most recent electric bills and compare the cost of cooling your home this year to previous years. Of course, you should also look into other potential causes of high energy bills, such as a faulty thermostat, leaky ductwork, or other electrical issues.

Listen to Your AC Unit

If your AC unit is making strange noises or frequently cycles on and off more than usual, it could be a sign that it’s not operating as efficiently as it used to. Some of these noises include:

Banging: Something may be loose inside the unit
Hissing: This could be due to a refrigerant leak
Clicking: There may be an issue with the AC’s electrical components
Grinding: Bearings could be wearing out
Clanking: Something may be wrong with the compressor

Most of these noises can be fixed with a simple repair, but if left unaddressed, they could lead to a complete AC unit failure. If these noises are recurring despite regular maintenance, it may be time to consider upgrading.

Consider the Repair History of Your Unit

If you need AC repairs more frequently, it may be time for an upgrade. The older your unit is, the more likely it is to break down – and repairs can only do so much. If you constantly have to call for repairs, a new unit will likely end up being cheaper in the long run. So, don’t wait for your unit to break down in the middle of a summer heat wave to decide it’s time for an upgrade.

Consult HVAC Experts Before Upgrading

If you’re unsure whether or not it’s time for an AC upgrade, talk to a professional AC expert. They can help you assess your situation and make the best decision for your home. A more efficient model will save you money and keep your home more comfortable all year long.