Top 5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioning Unit

Happiness is air conditioning on a sizzling summer night. But is your A/C unit on the fritz? Here are the top five telltale signs it might be time to embrace the adage, “Out with the old, in with the new.”

1. Never-ending Noise

While all A/C units emit some sound – they’re working really hard to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, after all – units that need replacing will squeak, hiss, pop, buzz, crackle, shake or rattle. Don’t risk ruining a perfectly good relationship with your neighbours (especially if they have a pool!). Get your unit replaced ASAP and enjoy the peace and quiet a new unit offers.

2. You’re Seeing A Little Too Much of Your Service Tech

Don’t get us wrong: we love to see you, but if you’re calling us in for repairs too often, it’s a sure sign it’s time to spring for a new A/C. Service fees can quickly add up, after all. Make sure you do the math and ask yourself if purchasing a new unit would be a better financial decision in the long run.

3. Your Unit is Becoming Vintage

While some antiquated items have their charms (like classic cars, for starters) your A/C unit isn’t one of them. If it’s 10 to 15 years old, it’s likely time for you to part with it. All good things must come to an end, right?

Even if you purchased your unit in the 90s or early 2000s, your A/C’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) is going to be less than 13, which is the minimum allowable rating in Ontario.

Still not quite ready to bid your A/C adieu? Know this: new units are way more energy efficient than older models, so you could end up saving hundreds of dollars a year. Upgrading an average home system from 10 SEER to 17 SEER can save you up to 40 per cent on hydro running costs. Think of all the things you could do with that extra cash!

4. Your A/C Unit Is Running Hot and Cold

If you feel like your house goes from blistering to blustery, or all the rooms in your home seem to be different temps, it’s more than likely your system needs replacing. While duct problems or insufficient insulating could be to blame, it never hurts to call in a pro to have the issue assessed. Remember: the job of your air conditioning unit is to keep you cool, and if you’re no longer comfortable, it’s time to part ways.

5. You’re Complaining It’s Humid…Inside Your House

If you can’t escape the mugginess of summer even when you’re inside your house, your cooling unit isn’t doing its job properly.

You might notice mould or water damage, condensation on your windows, or even a musty smell if your system needs to get the boot. These are problems that could be expensive to fix.

So Is a New A/C Unit In Order?

Tozer Heating & Air offers great rental and financing options. Be sure to ask us about them and stay cool all summer long.