4 Signs You Need To Replace Your AC

Here in the Outer Cape, we’re seeing summers get warmer than ever, for extended periods. And even when the temperature isn’t that high, the humidity can still make you pretty uncomfortable. That’s why many older homes that never needed air conditioning in the past have been adding ductless mini splits, fans and window air conditioners to their homes over the past few years.

As air conditioning has become more common on the Cape, one of the questions we are starting to get from more homes and businesses is what are the signs to look for that it’s getting to be time to replace your existing air conditioning system?

In this article, we will go over 4 of the most common signs we see when an air conditioner starts to fail. Luckily with regular maintenance, you should have a working AC for 10+ years, but it’s inevitable that every system will be replaced at some point.

If you want to talk to someone about your air conditioning system, give us a call at 508-394-0005, or contact us online! One of our HVAC specialists will be happy to help you out.

The Signs Your AC Is Ready To Be Replaced

1. Age of the system: If your AC system is 10 – 15 years old, it is likely to be getting towards the end of its lifecycle. Especially because we’re so close to the ocean, the salt air can corrode metal fins in air conditioners faster here than in other parts of the Commonwealth, and that can also shorten the life of your system.  When your older air conditioner starts needing more repairs and breaking down more frequently, it’s time to start thinking about whether investing in a new system will be more cost-effective.
   
   The other thing to note is that older systems use refrigerants that may be being phased out due to their potential damage to the environment. R-22, also known as Freon, has been phased out and is no longer available, and its replacement, R-410A, is also being phased out for more environmentally friendly coolants starting January, 2025.  What that means is that if you have an older system, it’s going to become harder and more expensive to “recharge” a system if there’s a coolant leak, and it may be time to consider a new system.
2. Decreased efficiency: if your monthly energy bills are going up even when the weather is pretty consistent, it’s possible your system isn’t working efficiently.  Make sure all your vents are uncovered and your air filter has been changed regularly, to help make sure the air is circulating well in your home. If your bills are still high, it may be time to start considering a new system.
3. Frequent Cycling: If your air conditioning keeps turning on and off frequently, this can be a sign that your system isn’t sized properly for your home, or there is a problem with the thermostat.  Thai is a sign to call your local HVAC specialist, like our experts here at McDonnell Mechanical, to check on your system.  Frequent cycling can cause undo wear and tear and lead to breakdowns, so don’t let this problem go!
4. Strange noises & smells: These things can indicate that there’s a problem brewing with your system. Strange noises can mean a mechanical problem, and strange smells could be anything from mold and mildew buildup to a problem with components wearing on each other. You should definitely call for service on your system.

The good news is that if you need a new AC system, the newer systems are much more efficient and can help reduce your energy usage by as much as 30%! This means lower energy bills every month with greater comfort. And with incentives and tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, you can save significant money by replacing your old system with a new high efficiency system, like a Mitsubishi electric heat pump.

Wherever you are on the Cape, you can count on the experts here at McDonnell Mechanical to help you find the perfect system for your home and help you keep it running well for years.  Just give us a call today, and we’ll be happy to check out your existing system. If it does need replacing, we’ll take the time to do an expert load calculation to make sure you get the right system for your home that will keep your family comfortable for years to come.