Signs It's Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

With the weather finally warming up in the Berkshires, you might be thinking about finally breaking out your air conditioners for those hot summer months. In this edition of The Pots and The Pans, we're sharing a few tips to help you recognize the signs that it may be time to replace your old unit.

1. Age of the Unit

Most well-maintained air conditioners have an average lifespan of 10-15 years. If your unit is approaching or has already surpassed this milestone, it is a good idea to start looking into replacements. Doing so will save you the headache of costly repairs and sudden breakdowns.

2. Energy Usage

If you are using your unit the same amount every summer, but see a significant increase in the price of your energy bill, this is a good indicator that it might be time to replace. It is likely that your unit has started to lose efficiency, which is resulting in it working harder to cool your home.

3. Frequent Repairs

If you begin to notice frequent breakdowns within your unit, it is more than likely that replacing might make more financial sense than repairing. This is especially relevant when you find yourself calling for multiple repairs in a single season or when you need replacements on parts such as the compressor. 

4. Strange Behavior

If you notice strange sounds or odors coming from your unit, this is a good sign that it's time for a new one. Banging, grinding, or squeaking noises often indicate failing parts on the internal side. Musty, burning smells can often times be a sign of mold growth or motor failure. 

5. Uneven Performance

If one room in your house feels freezing cold while the next remains warm and stuffy, your air conditioner may be struggling to maintain consistent temperatures. Uneven cooling is often a sign that your system is no longer operating efficiently and may need to be replaced.

If any of these signs resonate with you and your family, it might be a good idea to start looking into replacement options. Here at Henry's, we carry a variety of different sizes and types of air conditioners. We can offer units for most size rooms in your home in styles such as window units, portable units, wall fit units, and mini splits. For more information call 413-243-0690 or visit us in store at 252 Main Street, Lee, MA 01238.