When Should I Replace My AC and Heating? 5 Warning Signs

If you're wondering when you should replace your AC and heating, take a look at several warning signs here. Learn what you should know today!
Outdoor central air conditioning unit next to a residential building.

Do you think your AC and heating system needs replacing?

Our AC and heating systems play a huge part in keeping us comfortable in summer and winter. It’s easy to take them for granted. But if you don’t know the signs to spot for when they need replacing, they can give out when you need them the most.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Read on for these 5 signs that your AC and heating systems may need replacing.

1. Your AC and Heating Systems are 10 Years +

The Department of Energy recommends you replace your HVAC units every 10-15 years. This can be shorter depending on the level of usage and maintenance. 

AC units that are over 10 are more likely to use the refrigerant R-22. This type of refrigerant is out-dated and harmful to the environment. In fact, it’s now completely out of use. You’ll need to upgrade to a newer unit. This reduces your carbon footprint, and the extra efficiency will reduce your bills. 

2. You Have Unexplained Rising Energy Bills 


While seasonal changes to your bill are common, bills for the same months each year should be similar. High energy bills you can’t explain are a common sign your HVAC system needs an upgrade. 

As your AC and heating system gets older, they experience a decline in their efficiency. When the time comes, upgrading to a high-efficiency unit could drop your bills by up to 20%

3. Ineffective Climate Control 


If you’re boiling in one room and freezing in another, this could be another sign you need a new HVAC unit. Sometimes, strained or old units won’t have the power to keep a consistent temperature. 

They have to run longer and harder to get the same results as before. This is ineffective and will increase your energy bills. There are also other comfort factors to consider too. An ineffective unit can cause excess dust in the air or increasing humidity levels. 

4. Frequent Or Short Cycling 


It’s normal for your AC or heating system to flick on and off to keep your home at your set temperature. But, it’s not normal for it to short-cycle. This is where the unit turns off before its heating or cooling cycle is complete. 

This can be a sign that your system is too large for your home. Or it could be a sign your unit is working too hard and burning out because of an issue. 

This could be a clogged air filter or you need a refrigerant top-up. Or it could be that your unit is failing. Either way, short-cycling is a cry for help from your unit to get a technician out. 

5. It’ll Cost Over Half the Price of a New Unit to Repair the Old One 


Sometimes getting a new unit is a better investment than repairing the current one. This is the cast if the unit is more than 10 years old, or the repairs will cost over half the price of a new unit. 

All units need a repair here and there during their lifespan. Usually, it won’t be costly though. Big repair bills hint at big problems. In this case, it’s smarter to invest in a new unit rather than wait for the next large issue to come along. 

AC and Heating System Replacement Made Easy 


So there you have it! If any of the above AC and heating system issues sound familiar, it might be time for a new unit. 

If you need your AC unit removed, replaced and installed in a single day, contact us at On Point Service Company. We strive to be trustworthy and dependable, and will provide honest estimates and free second opinions on any HVAC job.

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