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Older cooling systems don’t perform nearly as efficiently as today’s newer models. A lot of them lack air filtering capabilities that protect the home from poor air quality. Trying to cool the house may be a struggle as the older unit short-cycles and loses power. Doing an inspection is the best way to determine whether your home needs a new system. But there are several warning signs you can watch for to help you decide if it’s time for a replacement.
Your AC System Is Over 20 Years Old
Most air conditioners last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Those that receive regular professional maintenance and filter changes can sometimes last as long as 20 to 25 years. If your setup is beyond the 20-year mark, it’s likely time for an upgrade. There’s a good chance it experiences frequent breakdowns that cause cooling problems. Doing a replacement will make much more sense than continuing to spend money on temporary fixes.
The System Uses R-22 Refrigerant
A cooling system that uses Freon (R-22) is one of the biggest clues to do a replacement. This type of refrigerant is harmful to the environment, which is why the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned it in 2020. Finding parts and someone to work on systems that use R-22 is becoming much more difficult. With an upgrade, you can rest easy knowing your system runs on modern, eco-friendly refrigerant that’s safer and more efficient.
You’re Constantly Adjusting the Thermostat
Having to constantly adjust the thermostat is not normal. Every time you change the temperature, the HVAC has to use extra energy to re-stabilize the indoor climate. This type of frequent adjustment is a clear sign the HVAC isn’t meeting your heating and cooling demands. Upgrading to a newer system will provide more consistent comfort and greater efficiency. You can even install a system with remote access so that you don’t have to get up or be home to make changes.
Your Energy Bills Keep Rising
If you don’t change your cooling habits but your cooling costs keep going up, your AC isn’t performing efficiently. This is very common with older systems because they don’t have advanced energy-saving technology. They’ll suck more and more electricity each month to cool the house, skyrocketing your energy costs. A new, energy-efficient system will have features like variable-speed compressors and smart thermostats to reduce energy use and save money.
Your Home Has Uneven Temperatures
Just because a home has uneven temperatures doesn’t always indicate it’s time for a new air conditioner. A clogged filter or a blocked vent could be the culprit behind this problem. If you’ve replaced the filter and checked the vents and ductwork with no improvement, that’s when a replacement might work best. Each room feeling drastically different in temperature is likely due to an aging or undersized system, which only a replacement can fix.
The AC Struggles to Keep Up on Hot Days
Having a cooling system that only performs well on days when it’s barely hot outside can be incredibly frustrating. It’s during the really hot days that you need it to perform at its best. Older systems will sometimes shut down or struggle to keep up on peak heat days. A new system can guarantee you have reliable cooling when temperatures soar.
You Hear Loud or Unusual Noises
Strange noises like grinding or banging don’t always mean you need a replacement, but much of the time they do. A technician may be able to replace a loose or broken component. But if the noise stems from internal damage to the compressor or motor, an upgrade is the best option. This is why system inspections are so important when considering a replacement. We can check the compressor, fan blades, motor bearings and electrical connections to decide whether the system is safe, efficient and worth keeping.
The Unit Short Cycles Frequently
Short cycling is one of the worst things for a cooling system. This happens when it turns on and off rapidly in an attempt to reach the desired temperature. It causes extreme wear and tear on the internal components and raises energy bills. In some cases, a simple thermostat adjustment or filter replacement can fix a short cycling problem. But if it keeps happening, this signifies deeper mechanical issues or an improperly sized system. You’ll need to replace the unit with a properly sized, energy-efficient model to resolve the problem and restore reliable performance.
There’s a Persistent Musty or Burnt Smell
If the AC kicks on and you immediately notice a musty smell, this could mean the unit has mold growing inside of it. Mold growth is harmful to your health and makes the AC use more energy by restricting airflow and reducing efficiency. If you smell a burning odor, you should turn it off immediately. A melting wire or overworked motor can catch fire and damage the system. Whether it’s mold or overheating, a new system will get rid of these hazards so that the home stays safe and comfortable.
The System Has a Low SEER or SEER2 Rating
SEER ratings play a vital role in your cooling system’s efficiency. Most older units have lower ratings when compared to today’s newer models, meaning they use more energy. In Tennessee, the minimum SEER2 requirement is 14.3 for systems under 45,000 BTU. We recommend a minimum rating of 15.2 to 16.5 to achieve the best performance and energy efficiency.
Your AC Lacks Modern Air Filtration Features
The heat and humidity in Murfreesboro, TN during the spring and summer can make allergies and asthma symptoms worse. If your AC doesn’t have advanced filtering capabilities, this can make the home a hotspot for airborne irritants. Upgrading the home with a new cooling system with built-in air purification can provide the relief you need to breathe easier and stay comfortable.
Repairs Are Getting More Frequent and Expensive
Are you spending more and more money on AC repairs? If so, we suggest calculating the total cost of ongoing repairs compared to the price of a new system. You might find it makes more sense to do a full AC upgrade rather than putting more money toward temporary fixes.
You Experience Frequent Electrical Breaker Trips
It’s not unusual for a cooling system to trip a breaker once or twice a year. This can happen when the unit overheats or runs during a power surge. But if you keep going to the electrical panel to flip the breaker, you’re dealing with an electrical issue that needs fast repair. And if there’s compressor failure or severe internal damage, an upgrade will be the only way to fix it for good.
A/C Plus Heating & Cooling offers expert guidance and flexible HVAC financing to help homeowners plan an AC replacement. Our installation support ensures a seamless setup and long-lasting system performance.
Schedule your AC installation with A/C Plus Heating & Cooling in Murfreesboro today, and enjoy the difference a new AC can make in your home comfort.
