Repair or replace how long do AC units last
Air conditioners are a necessity for keeping a home at a consistently comfortable temperature year round. Particularly in the Midwest, where temperatures in the warmer months spike quickly and require a reliable system to keep the temperature indoors at a reasonable level, a working A/C is a requirement for homeowners.
Even though it is used consistently, most homeowners will not be looking closely at their A/C units on a regular basis, especially as they are usually out of sight. So it can become difficult to determine the overall health of the unit, and whether it’s still performing as expected, or if it’s close to that time where it would be better to upgrade a home’s A/C before a major issue occurs or the A/C shuts down. To get a better handle on home air conditioner lifespans, and for indications that it’s time to look at new systems to replace a current model, watch for these signs to determine how well a home’s current A/C system is performing.
The Average Age of a Home’s Air Conditioner
Homeowners probably know that A/C units will not last forever, though they may not be aware of just how long their A/C is supposed to last, particularly if they’ve never had to purchase an A/C before or if they have moved into a home with an older unit. The typical lifespan for a residential air conditioner unit is 10–15 years. But each individual unit will vary, and it largely depends on the type, manufacturer, and general wear and tear on the specific unit and system.
If a home’s A/C unit is about to pass the decade marker, though, that is a good point for homeowners to start paying closer attention to the system to make sure it’s still keeping consistent temperatures as set on the thermostat, that the areas around the house are consistently cool, and that the unit itself isn’t showing signs of age or having issues — such as making odd noises, major leaks, or off-putting smells.
Noises and Smells
Speaking of odd noises and weird smells, there are a limited amount of things that should emanate from a well-functioning A/C unit — generally cool air, and the sound of a healthy motor blowing that cool air.
If the unit is starting to rattle, rumble, or grind, or if it is emitting smells of burning or melting plastic, it’s time to shut the unit down immediately and have it serviced. Determining exactly what is happening internally will require help from a professional, and it’s better safe than sorry, particularly when the smells are acrid or if they are accompanied by visible smoke. The smells could just be excess dust burning off the unit as it heats up, or it could be a more serious issue such as the wiring beginning to fray — but only a professional will be able to determine for certain.
Increased Dust and Inconsistent Cooling
The point of an A/C unit is to move air throughout the home. But that air should be at a consistent temperature, and it should be without excess dust and debris. An increase in dust or debris could signal that the unit needs to have its air filter replaced, but it could also be a sign that the unit is no longer capable of filtering the air throughout the home properly.
Similarly, the unit should be able to provide cool air consistently to every room and every vent. If there are spots where the cool air never seems to reach, or if it feels like the unit is providing air that just never seems to be cool enough, it could be an issue with the thermostat, but it could also be an issue with the A/C unit itself.
A Rising Energy Bill
Energy bills are known to fluctuate month-to-month and season-to-season, but there should be an air of consistency to the pattern. If homeowners notice their energy bills rising without a seasonal reason, or rising much higher than the previous year, the culprit could be a run-away A/C unit. As systems become older and less efficient, they tend to use an increasing amount of power, causing homeowner power bills to spike.
Homeowners rely on having a continuously operational, efficient A/C unit within their home, especially throughout the summer months. If you’re noticing your home’s A/C unit struggling to keep up, making odd noises, or if you have questions about whether now is the right time for an upgrade, reach out to the professionals at Duane Blanton Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, and Cooling for help! The knowledgeable and licensed technicians at Duane Blanton have 30+ years of experience in HVAC, and are able to guide you toward the right choice for your unique home heating and cooling needs to ensure you stay comfortable year round. Give the experts at Duane Blanton Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, and Cooling a call today, at (815) 781-2567, or schedule online through their convenient online scheduling portal.
Duane Blanton Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, and Cooling is proud to be a Bryant Authorized Dealer, offering top-quality heating and cooling options to fit the specific needs of Duane Blanton customers. The quality, comfort, and efficiency of Bryant Heating & Cooling Systems’ products naturally aligns with Duane Blanton’s drive to provide an exceptional customer service experience. Ask a Duane Blanton Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, and Cooling expert today about the advantages of upgrading to a new Bryant Heating & Cooling system for your home!
