Did you know that in Florida, there are about 25 days in a year wherein the temp feels like it’s over 100 degrees?
That’s plenty enough, but according to scientists, this may go up to a staggering 105 days a year! Climate change would be the biggest contributor to this increase.
Either way, 100 degrees is already too hot for the body to handle, putting it at risk of heat strokes.
It’s because of these dangers that you need to learn when to replace air conditioner units. Your home’s cooling equipment, after all, could be your saving grace from a heat stroke. As such, the last thing you want is to come home to an air conditioner that doesn’t work.
Ready to learn how to tell if you need an air conditioner replacement for your Venice or Sarasota home? Then let’s dive right into it!
It Still Uses the R-22 Refrigerant (AKA Freon)
R-22, or “Freon”, was the most common form of hydrofluorocarbon (HCFC) used in air conditioners. HCFCs are Class II ozone-depleting substances. This means that they have the ability to destroy the stratospheric ozone.
Because of this, the EPA has set previous restrictions on R-22 production and use. As of January 01, 2020 though, the agency has completely banned its production, import, and use in new ACs. The remaining “reclaimed” R-22 supply can now only be for the use of existing equipment.
This means that if your air conditioner still runs on R-22, recharging it will become very pricey. After all, the current ban will make the current supply of Freon scarcer than ever. Since the supply is low, then you can expect its costs to be much higher.
The fact alone that R-22 is harmful should be enough reason to consider replacing your AC. Now that there’s also a ban (which comes with high costs), it makes even more sense to buy a new AC.
It Leaks Refrigerant
If your air conditioner is leaking its precious R-22, that’s all the more reason to get it replaced. Usually, you can tell that you have a Freon leak if your AC blows out warm air while also making hissing sounds. A constantly freezing AC coil and an overall loss of cooling power are also foolproof signs of R-22 leaks.
If the AC in your Venice or Sarasota home has been exhibiting these symptoms, it may be best to get it replaced ASAP.
It’s More Than a Decade Old
If your AC doesn’t use R-22 but the relatively newer R410-A, should you still replace it? How long do air conditioners last on average anyway?
To answer your first question, yes, you should, if it’s more than 10 years old. As for the second question, proper AC care and maintenance should make a central unit last for about 15 to 20 years.
So if an air conditioner can last for up to two decades, why then would you want to replace one that’s only ten years old?
For one, because the technology back then isn’t as efficient as the technology today. As the Department of Energy says, today’s Energy Star-rated ACs can cut your cooling costs by at least 20%.
One brand that features Energy Star-approved HVAC systems is York. In fact, many of York’s products are part of the Energy Star’s top-rated and most efficient ACs of 2020!
The energy savings you can get from an efficient AC is a good enough reason to invest in a new unit. Moreover, energy-efficient ACs are better for the environment, so that’s another incentive.
It’s Making Your Energy Bills Skyrocket
One reason behind the energy inefficiency of older ACs is their low SEER. SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). It’s a way to measure an air conditioner’s energy expenditure and usage to its cooling output.
That said, the lower the equipment’s SEER is, the greater its energy consumption. The more energy it uses, the more it contributes to your home’s electricity bills. Having an AC with a low SEER rating means you’re likely paying more than you should for using your it.
To give you an idea, the average residential electricity bill in Florida rounds up to about $130. Nationwide, the median sits at almost $118. If yours is way higher than these averages, chances are, you have an inefficient cooling unit.
Also, keep in mind that in the Southeast, the federally-required minimum SEER rating is 14. However, only HVAC units manufactured after 2015 meet this requirement. If you’ve had your AC for longer, then it’s even more likely that it has a low SEER rating.
Some of the latest York air conditioners have a SEER rating of at least 19. If you swap your old AC for one of these new York ACs, you can save more than 30% in your cooling costs.
You’ve Had Your Current AC Repaired Multiple Times in a Short Period of Time
To repair or to replace an AC — this is one of the biggest issues that many Florida homeowners face. For air conditioners that are only a few years old, repairs are more practical. If, however, you’ve been ringing up an AC repair tech more these days, then a replacement may already be in order.
Your Faulty AC Is up for Pricey Repairs
Improper installation and a lack of maintenance can kill your air conditioner early. Incorrect installation, for instance, can render even a high SEER-rated AC inefficient. A lack of maintenance can also result in the premature break down of AC components.
In both cases, even if your air conditioner is relatively new, you may end up having to get it fixed for a high price. Before you agree to the repairs, weigh the cost of getting it fixed with the price of a new unit. Be sure to also consider the expected remaining life of your current air conditioner.
If there’s not much difference in the cost, and your AC only has a few years left, then a replacement may be a wiser choice.
Still unsure whether to repair or replace your existing air conditioner? Then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us! We’ll be happy to help you make the right choice for your Venice or Sarasota home!
Protect Yourself From the Heat by Knowing When to Replace Air Conditioner Units
There you have it, your ultimate guide on how to tell when to replace air conditioner units. So, if your AC has been acting up a lot these days, it’s in your best interest to invest in a replacement. This way, you can worry less about suffering from heat strokes since you know that you can rely on your AC.
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