If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your air conditioning unit until it’s hot outside and you need it to cool your home. But did you know that your AC unit has an expiration date?

Just like your car or toaster, your AC unit will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Most AC units have a life span of about 12 to 15 years. After your unit moves past those years, it will most likely need some serious repairs or even a full replacement.

If you’re wondering whether your AC has reached that point, here are the top signs that your AC is getting old.

Note: There are many signs that your AC unit is not functioning at its best, so this list of signs is not comprehensive, but it does contain the signs we see most often.

1. Decrease in Performance

One of the most common signs that your unit is headed to the graveyard is decreased performance. In other words, your AC is not cooling your home as efficiently as it used to. How can you tell when this is happening?

You may also notice that certain rooms or levels of your home remain warm even when the AC is on full blast. In addition, you may start to feel the effects of increased humidity levels in your house, as the AC unit struggles to remove moisture from the air.

If your AC unit is struggling to keep up with the heat, it could be costing you more than just an uncomfortable summer.

In fact, decreased performance in your AC unit can also mean higher energy bills. As your AC unit works harder to maintain a cool temperature, it uses more energy, which can add up over time.

So if you notice that your AC unit isn’t performing as well as it used to, be sure to have it checked out by a professional. They can help you get your AC unit back in tip-top shape – and save you money in the process.

2. Noises and Smells

A loud clanging or rumbling is an indication that your air conditioner is on its last legs. Most AC units make some noise when they operate, but a metal-grinding sound is not good.

A burning odor coming from your air conditioner might indicate a failing engine or coil, which means the end of your equipment.

If your AC unit is giving off a musty smell, that can be a sign of mold or mildew. But, it’s also a common smell for older units and may not necessarily mean it’s dying.

Consider calling a technician or getting an inspection if you run into these issues, because they don’t always mean the end of your unit, just that it’s a possibility.

3. Increased Maintenance Work

If you’re constantly seeing issues with the different parts of your units, your AC could be dying.

A broken coil, motor, or compressor is a major event that often signals the immediate need for a replacement AC unit, but sometimes the end of the road arrives more slowly over a longer period of time.

It might look more like this:

• You’re calling your local HVAC service four or five times a year.
• Your unit constantly needs refrigerant refills or leaks it regularly.
• Your circuit breakers are being tripped routinely by your AC unit.

All these point to a unit that is slowly but surely failing and may need extensive repair or a replacement.

One last note here: Your system should be using R-410A refrigerant or a similar refrigerant.  If it’s not, then refrigerant issues may also spur you to replacement. Older systems often use R-22 refrigerant, which is now banned due to environmental concerns and is not a viable replacement.

What Do I Do If My AC Unit Is Dying?

We recommend first to get in touch with an HVAC repair technician to inspect and give you a full overview of your unit.

At Rod Miller, we offer free second opinions on air conditioning issues. If someone’s told you that your system needs to be replaced, but you’re feeling unsure about the recommendation, give us a call. Our technicians aren’t paid by how much they sell, so they’re not incentivized to push you toward an unnecessary replacement.

We strive to treat all our customers like family, and many times that means making the extra effort to make a lasting replacement instead of opting for a temporary repair.

Repair or Replace with Confidence

So, if you’re experiencing any of these signs, it might be time for a new AC unit.

But don’t worry – we can help! Replacing your AC unit is a big job, but our team at Rod Miller is here to make it as easy and stress-free as possible.

Give us a call today at 301-569-7993 or fill out the form here to get the replacement or repair assistance you need.