3 Signs It’s Time for a New AC Installation (and What to Do Next)

Summer in the south is no joke. By the time July rolls around, you want your AC unit to be in peak working condition – not waiting for a replacement in a hot, stuffy house. Having a properly functioning air conditioning unit means you can relax inside on a hot summer day. Are you sure your air conditioning is working at peak condition? When was the last time you replaced it?

Don’t wait until the weather starts warming up to assess the health of your home’s AC. Here are three key signs it’s time to install a new AC unit and how Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing can help.

Sign One: Unusual Noises

A low hum is the standard noise an AC unit makes while working properly, but if your AC unit is making different or louder noises than usual, it can be a bad sign. A grinding or screeching noise can indicate that a part is loose or broken somewhere within the machine. Strange whirring noises can also mean that debris has gotten stuck in the outside air handler, like tree branches.

It’s important to also be aware of any changes in smell. Mold and moisture smells mean the unit is not dehumidifying properly. If there’s a burning or electrical smell, contact a professional immediately before it becomes a safety hazard.

Sign Two: Frequent AC Repairs

Another way to know it’s time to replace your AC unit is to consider the frequency of repairs. Do you find yourself having to make more and more repairs? Over time, as a unit deteriorates, it can become more costly to continue fixing it. A brand-new unit will save you money in the long run with fewer repairs and even lower energy bills.

If your energy bills have skyrocketed in recent years, your AC unit could be losing efficiency. A highly efficient air conditioner can reduce energy usage by 20 to 50 percent per year.

Sign Three: Unit Age

As your air conditioning unit ages, it will become less efficient and more prone to breaking down. This will cost you both in frequent repair costs and higher energy bills. In general, a well-maintained and regularly used AC unit will last around 10 to 15 years, but factors like constant usage and the intensity of the weather will influence how long it lasts. In the south, air conditioners work harder during the summer.

Age alone doesn’t always signal the need for a new air conditioner, but it should be something you take into consideration. Keep an eye out for the signs mentioned above and consider your unit’s age when making a decision about repairs and replacement.

What’s Next?

If your air conditioning unit is exhibiting signs of needing repair, act sooner rather than later. When you think it’s time to replace your air conditioning unit, schedule a consultation with Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our team of certified experts is ready to help, proudly supplying Carrier AC units to keep your home comfortable and efficient. For top of the line HVAC installations in North Georgia, give us a call at 770-536-2301 or schedule a visit today.

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