9 Signs Your Home Needs a New AC Before This Summer

But how can you tell when it’s time to get a new AC entirely?

Ahh, would that the sweltering heat of a summer day could never get to us, could never penetrate our walls, and gradually heat up our house to the point of becoming unlivable? But that’s not how it works, of course.

To learn the signs that your home needs a new AC, just keep reading!

Inadequate Cooling

With summer months just around the corner, it is important to check for signs that an AC unit may need replacing. One of the major signs to look out for when it comes to inadequate cooling is warm air blowing out of your vents.

If the unit isn’t properly cooling the air, you may be paying extra to run the AC, with no result. Another sign is condensation on or near the unit. This could indicate a lack of coolant, a clogged filter, or a damaged component.

If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s best to have an expert come and diagnose the problem before the summer months make it too hot to bear.

Strange Odors When AC Turned On

If you’re noticing strange odors when you turn on your AC this summer, it may be a sign that your home needs a new AC unit. A “musty” type of odor may indicate the presence of mold.

If this is the case, the mold can spread to your air ducts and can cause headaches, eye irritation, difficulty breathing, and more. Foul odors may also be caused by a blocked or dirty air filter in the AC unit or something wrong with the heating and cooling coil.

Additionally, if you notice a burning smell, it could indicate a wiring issue or an electrical failure. Have an AC professional inspect your unit and replace any faulty parts or filters as needed.

It’s Reached the End of Its Lifespan

Suppose your thermostat isn’t regulating the temperature as desired and your home is still feeling uncomfortable and warm even in cooler weather. In that case, it is an indicator that the AC unit has reached the end of its lifespan. The air conditioning isn’t cooling your home effectively and will cost more to repair and maintain than it is worth.

If your AC system is more than 10 years old, it is likely that it has reached the end of its life. Other telltale signs include strange noises, a decrease in air flow, constant cycling, and the presence of strange smells when the AC is running.

Increased Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed a dramatic surge in your electricity or gas bills – particularly over the past few months – that could mean that your existing air conditioner is not as efficient as it once was. If your utility costs have been steadily climbing, it could mean the cooling capacity of the system is expiring and the unit is overworking.

Other signs are frequent air conditioning visits, strange noises or smell from the unit, improper temperature control, and lower-than-normal airflow. If you’ve experienced any of these issues, consider investing in a new air conditioner.

Expired Warranty

If your air conditioning warranty has expired, it is important to keep an eye out for signs that it is time for a new AC system. If you notice strange noises coming from the AC or if it is taking longer than usual to cool a room, it is likely time to consider a new system.

If your AC is short-cycling, which means it runs for a short period before switching off again, this usually indicates a decline in the system’s efficiency and aging components. If you have tried servicing your old AC and still don’t have the desired results you need, it could be time for an upgrade.

Freon or Water Leaks

It is important to inspect your air conditioning system if you have any suspicions that it may be having an issue. One of the primary signs that your home needs a new AC before this summer is leaking freon or water.

Freon is used in the cooling process, so if you detect a coolant smell around your AC, it could be a sign that the system has a slow coolant leak. Additionally, water leaks around the system could be a sign of clogged condensate lines, which could be a sign that your AC needs to be replaced.

Repair After Repair After Repair

As temperatures slowly climb into the summer months, it’s important to make sure that your air conditioning system is in good shape to manage your home’s climate. A few signs may indicate that it’s time to consider getting a new AC before the summer season begins.

If you’ve had continuous repairs over the past few summers, or your current unit is making strange noises or seems to be running at an inefficient capacity, it could be time to upgrade. Prolonging repairs with a continuously aging air conditioning system can lead to even greater repair costs or breakdowns during the summer season.

Your System Is Louder Than Usual

Unfortunately, loud sounds are an indication that your system could be overloaded or overworked and could fail without proper maintenance. Additionally, louder sounds can be a sign that the motor is wearing out, or there are other mechanical issues preventing your AC from running properly.

Additionally, if air from the vents is not cool enough, then the compressor may be failing, which is another sign that your system needs attention before the hot summer months. If you’re unable to determine why your AC is making strange sounds, then it’s best to call for an air conditioning repair service.

AC Thermostat is Not Working

If your home’s AC thermostat is not working this summer, it could be a sign that you need a new air conditioner. Your AC may no longer be efficient or effective if the thermostat has been faulty.

Other signs your AC is ready to be replaced include uneven cooling, inconsistent air temperature, strange sounds coming from the AC unit, or energy bills that have suddenly skyrocketed. 

Telltale Signs That Your Home Needs a New AC

With the days getting hotter, it’s important to check your home’s new AC and replace it if needed. Make sure you recognize the signs, including excessive noise, weakened airflow, and/or an increase in energy costs.