The weather is starting to heat up and summer will be here before we know it. If you’re still using an old airconditioner you may find that it will be costly to both you and your energy bills as old air conditioners can be incredibly energy inefficient.Â
Therefore, knowing when it’s time to consider an air conditioner upgrade can help stop you reaching to point of wasting energy, money, and time repairing a faulty unit. That’s why we have created this guide to help you recognise when your current air conditioner needs a well-earned upgrade. By listing the key factors that indicate your air conditioning unit needs to be replaced, you can be sufficiently prepared when your unit’s time comes around.
1. Age of the System
One of the fundamental and most easily tracked factors that determine whether your air conditioning unit needs an upgrade is its age. For the most part, air conditioning units have a lifespan of around 10-15 years. If you are aware that your unit is approaching or has exceeded this age range, it is time to consider an upgrade.Â
Not only will a new unit mean increased temperature control performance, but it will also be more energy-efficient and less prone to breakdowns. Your new model may also come with advanced technologies that did not exist back when your current unit was built, granting you access to brand-new features and benefits.
2. Rising Energy Bills
Rising energy bills? Not sure where they’re coming from as your usage habits haven’t changed? The culprit may be your old air conditioning unit and its energy-guzzling ways. This is because older systems tend to consume more energy as they struggle to maintain the desired temperature.Â
You can prevent the continuous rise of your energy bills by upgrading to a newer and more energy-efficient model. If you are especially passionate about saving energy, it is best to look for units with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. Models with this seal of approval have a better energy performance than the average air conditioning unit.
3. Frequent Repairs
It is time to consider an upgrade to your air conditioning unit if your call log is full of requests for your local technician to visit for repairs. Although it is not unusual for older units to require the occasional bout of maintenance as their components wear out, constant repairs indicate a breakdown is imminent. It also indicates the need for more money as repairs become more frequent and costly. Choosing to invest in a new unit can save you money on repair bills in the long run and sweep away the stress of constant upkeep.
4. Inconsistent Cooling
For those who are dealing with inconsistent cooling throughout your home—some rooms being too cold while others remain warm—your air conditioner is likely to no longer be distributing air evenly. This could be due to a range of factors, including inadequate sizing for your home, worn-out components, or ductwork issues. All of these issues can easily be resolved by upgrading to a new system. Then you can enjoy a home with consistent and balanced cooling throughout.
5. Unpleasant Odours or Poor Air Quality
While it may seem surprising, the presence of unpleasant odours may indicate that your air conditioning unit is experiencing some difficulties in running. When combined with a decline in indoor air quality, it becomes increasingly more likely that your unit has underlying problems that need to be addressed.
Older air conditioning units tend to develop a build-up of mould, dust, and other allergens. This leads to compromised air quality, which can cause unpleasant odours and increased allergy symptoms. If you have noticed these issues in your home, upgrading your unit to one with improved air filtration can go a long way to clearing up your home.
6. Outdated Technology
Technology is constantly advancing, and the same goes for the technology used in air conditioning systems. The recent progressions in air conditioning technology have led to more
efficient and user-friendly systems, features that most older units lack. If you’re interested in smart controls, energy-saving modes, or programmable thermostats, it may be time to upgrade your level of comfort and ease.Â
7. Environmental Considerations
You and your home are not the only impacted parties when your air conditioning system starts to get on in the years. Older units were typically made to use refrigerants that are harmful to the environment, such as R-22 (Freon). Refrigerants in these older models typically contribute to ozone depletion, which is why there have been initiatives to phase them out in favour of more eco-friendly alternatives. Making a difference for the planet and reducing your carbon footprint is as simple as upgrading to a new unit.
8. Home Renovations or Additions
Issues with your current air conditioning unit don’t have to be the only reason to upgrade it. You may need to consider an upgrade if you’re planning a home renovation or adding new rooms to your house. Your current unit may not be able to handle the additional load or effectively cool the newly added spaces. Take the chance to upgrade the power of your air conditioning unit as you upgrade your home. Choosing a professional replacement for old air conditioners will ensure your expanded living areas remain comfortable year-round.
9. Noise and Disruption
The ambience of your home may have become disrupted by the rattle or wheeze of your old air conditioning unit. With age comes wear and tear, which creates noise that can become increasingly intrusive. This disruption to your home could also be a sign of impending failure. Upgrading to a newer model can provide quieter operation and improved acoustic features for a more peaceful living environment.
10. Tax Incentives and Rebates
You may not be aware but your local government and utility companies may be offering incentives and rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. This includes air conditioners, which the cost of upgrading can be significantly offset through these financial incentives. Be sure to research available incentives in your area to see if there are opportunities to make upgrading your air conditioner even more financially attractive.Â
Upgrade Your Lifestyle Today
Upgrading your air conditioning unit may seem like a daunting task, but choosing the right time is easy if you follow this simple guide. Checking the age and condition of your unit, how it may be affecting your lifestyle, and whether you are interested in an improvement in technology can help you make your decision. When in doubt, consulting with HVAC professionals can provide expert insights tailored to your specific situation, helping you make the best choice for your air conditioning needs.
