As fall arrives and the temperatures start to drop, it’s easy to forget about your air conditioning system—especially after months of relying on it to keep your home cool. But now is actually the perfect time to reflect on how well your AC performed over the summer. If you found yourself constantly calling for AC repair, dealing with poor cooling, or noticing skyrocketing energy bills, it may be time to face the possibility that your old air conditioner needs to go.
Here are some key signs to help you decide if it’s time to schedule an AC replacement.
1. Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs
While any system can need the occasional fix, if your air conditioner has needed multiple repairs this past summer, it’s a red flag. Each repair adds up, and you could end up spending more on fixing an old system than it would cost to replace it entirely.
A good rule of thumb is the 50% rule: If the cost of repairing your AC is more than half the price of a new unit, it’s time to consider a replacement. With today’s energy-efficient systems, you’ll save on repair bills and enjoy lower utility costs as well.
2. Rising Energy Bills
If your AC is working harder than it used to in order to cool your home, it’s likely consuming more energy. An older system may lose its efficiency over time, which causes it to work overtime to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Even if it’s technically still working, that increased energy consumption will reflect in your utility bills.
Energy efficiency standards have improved significantly over the years, and newer models can cool your home much more effectively with less energy use. If you noticed a spike in your bills this summer, it might be time to invest in a more efficient system that will save you money in the long run.
3. Your AC Is More Than 10–15 Years Old
Most central air conditioning systems last between 10 to 15 years. If your AC is approaching or surpassing this age range, you’re likely looking at an inevitable replacement soon. While some well-maintained systems can last longer, their efficiency, reliability, and performance start to decline noticeably after this point.
If your system is more than a decade old, it’s worth considering an upgrade before you get stuck with a costly breakdown in the middle of a heatwave next year. Modern AC units are not only more efficient, but they also offer improved technology like smart thermostats and better filtration for enhanced air quality.
4. Declining Comfort Levels
Uneven cooling is a common sign of an aging air conditioner that’s struggling to keep up. As parts of the system wear out, it may lose the ability to cool your home evenly, leaving you with uncomfortable hot spots.
A new, properly sized and installed air conditioner can eliminate these uneven temperatures and ensure that your home is consistently comfortable throughout the summer months.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If your AC struggled to keep up this summer, don’t wait until next year to address the issue. Replacing your old air conditioner this fall can help you avoid costly AC repair Danville, reduce energy consumption, and improve your home’s overall comfort. At Hometown Heating and Air Conditioning, we’re here to help you choose the right system for your home and ensure a smooth installation process.
Call us today for help with AC repair or to plan an AC replacement. At Hometown Heating and Air Conditioning, Your Comfort Is Our Business!