When Should You Consider a New AC Installation?
Many homeowners in the Louisville area purchase existing properties to renovate into the homes of their dreams. However, most of the work involved in current renovating trends revolves around aesthetics, and unfortunately, many important components in a home often get overlooked. One such component is your AC system. Oftentimes, people will take their AC for granted until serious issues suddenly arise that make living in the home an uncomfortable experience. For existing AC units, how do you know when the solution requires more than just repairs? Here are some signs that indicate you might need a new AC installation.
When to Consider a New AC Installation
Your Current AC Unit Is Over 15 Years Old
A well-maintained AC unit can last between 10 to 15 years. Unfortunately, however, the mechanical parts inside your AC become obsolete as it ages, making it difficult to repair when replacement components are needed. After about a decade, it is recommended that you replace your AC with a newer, more efficient model that can continue to provide the same comfort in your home that is up to current climate and industry standards.
Rising Energy Bills
If you start to notice a sudden spike in your electricity bill, you shouldn’t wait months to lose even more money from an inefficient AC unit. Suspicious higher energy bills that come even after you and your family have tried to maintain the same energy usage can be due to a faulty AC unit. When parts are dirty, damaged, or incorrectly installed in your AC, it puts a strain on the whole system. In turn, your AC will require more energy to operate, leading to more energy consumption over time.
High Humidity
If your home feels humid with the AC running, it could be due to several factors. For example, your AC evaporator coils might be frozen, your AC condenser coils might need cleaning, your AC might be too old, or your AC unit might not be enough to provide cooling for the number of people in your household. While some of these standard issues can be temporarily remediated by professional AC repair, most of the time, humidity issues point to a lack of general power and performance. If you want an effective, long-term solution, a new AC installation might be the better option.
Poor Airflow
If you observe that certain areas of your home do not receive cool air while your AC is running, it can be a symptom of issues, such as dirty air filters, leaks in your AC ducts, or obstructed AC vents, to name a few. However, if your AC is running but noticeably not putting out much air, it could mean more serious problems. You might have a faulty AC blower belt, or worse, your AC’s motor might be failing.
Warm Air From AC Vents
Your AC unit should conveniently provide cool, comfortable air when you need it most. However, if your AC is barely blowing any cold air or if it’s only producing warm air, it could be a dangerous sign that your refrigerant levels are too low. Usually, this means that there is a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system, most likely around your evaporator coils. This coil replacement can cost anywhere from several hundred to a few thousand dollars, which might make a new AC installation a better alternative overall.
Inconsistent or Incorrect Temperature
When the temperature never feels right in your home, it can mean that there are several leaks around your space. It could be due to poorly insulated windows or even cracks or gaps around the seals of your doors. Additionally, it could also mean that your vents are obstructed. However, if you don’t have any furniture or items blocking your vents and your AC still fails to reach your desired temperature, it could be indicative of a deeper, internal issue, such as a failing or aging unit.
Strange Noises
Any squealing, screeching, or squeaking noises while your AC is running could indicate faulty fan belts or fan motor bearings. There might also be a fault with your compressor building up too much pressure, or there could be loose parts in your system. A thorough inspection and AC repair will be needed to resolve these issues. However, if your system is too old and has a slew of other problems anyway, you might want to think about replacing it with a new AC installation.
Weird Odors
A musty, moldy smell coming from your AC vents might mean that bacteria has grown and built up within your unit, especially if your AC is located in a dark and particularly humid area. However, if you notice a strange, chemical-like smell coming from your AC, there might be a refrigerant leak in your system. Refrigerant leaks are not just harmful to the environment, but they could also pose serious risks to your health if they remain unresolved. You should contact a qualified AC installation and repair expert as soon as possible to ensure your home’s safety from these potential contaminants.
Benefits of a New AC Unit
Energy Savings
New AC installations use up-to-date models that are more energy-efficient than older units. New units are optimized for maximum performance, ensuring that they make the most of the energy consumed to produce the best heating, cooling, and ventilation for your home.
Improved Air Quality
With a current AC installation, you can also help to improve your home’s indoor air quality. A newer unit comes with improved ventilation, airflow, and humidity control that can produce more comfortable living conditions indoors.
Increased Home Value
Finally, it may be worth considering getting an AC installation as an important investment in your home. As you perform necessary upgrades to your home’s most critical components, its value also increases in turn. Eventually, if you do decide to sell your home, you’ll be glad you put in the extra effort and got an updated AC installation for a better return on investment.
Top-Rated Professional AC Installation in Louisville, KY
For top-rated, fair-priced, and professional AC installation in Louisville, KY, look no further than Cair Heating & Cooling. With over two decades of experience providing unparalleled HVAC solutions to homes and businesses in the Louisville area, our team can help you determine the best AC installation that meets your needs and goals. To request an estimate or to schedule an appointment today, please contact us at (502) 708-2247.
