Air conditioners, even the best ones, eventually need replacement. Even well-maintained units eventually experience problems.
Most new AC units last 10-20 years, varying by environment and maintenance. Aging units can develop faults despite regular maintenance. While repairs are an option, replacement might be more cost-effective.
Perth’s harsh climate necessitates reliable heating and cooling. Faulty AC units impact comfort at home and work. Recognising when your AC needs repair or replacement is essential, especially in Australia’s climate.
Simple fixes differ from irreversible problems. Routine maintenance may not always prevent performance decline and increased running costs.
Recognise these warning signs when considering replacing your air conditioning in Perth whether commercial or domestic.
Signs Your AC Needs Replacement
Air conditioners have a limited lifespan and decline in efficiency over time. Usage frequency and climate significantly impact their longevity.
Regular maintenance extends the life of your AC, but even well-maintained units eventually encounter problems.
Deciding between repairing your AC and installing a new AC system can be challenging. Global Cool Air, your local Perth aircon experts, can guide you. Here are signs it’s time for a new unit.
Disruptive Noises and Strange Smells
When the AC turns on, unusual noises, smells, or moisture suggest potential issues.
Most modern air conditioners operate quietly. Unusual noises like rattling, ticking, or buzzing often signal serious internal problems, and repairing is costly or impractical. Replacement may be the better option.
Vibrations in the outdoor condenser unit can worsen over time and may require repair or replacement.
The outdoor condenser unit draws in outside air for the air conditioning system.
Strange smells from your AC, even after air conditioner purifier and filter replacement, or duct cleaning, indicate a potential need for replacement.
It often points to a dirty unit, a clogged filter, or damaged insulation/mouldy ductwork.
Unusual noises, like grinding or screeching, can indicate serious internal problems.
Unexpected High Energy Bills
An unexpected spike in energy bills could signal AC inefficiency. An energy audit can help pinpoint the cause.
Rising energy costs, especially during peak cooling/heating seasons, can indicate an inefficient AC system. While filter cleaning or minor repairs might offer temporary relief, aging units often struggle to maintain performance, leading to higher bills.
Inefficient AC systems work harder to compensate for faults, increasing energy consumption.
Monitor energy bills during peak seasons. Unexpectedly high bills warrant an energy audit to assess AC efficiency.
A sudden energy bill spike could indicate a problem even if your AC seems to work normally. Conduct an energy audit to isolate the AC as the potential culprit.
An AC technician can help determine if your unit has reached the end of its lifespan.
Check here how much electricity does an air conditioner consume to get an idea of the usual AC energy costs.
Advancing Age
Well-maintained air conditioners can last 15-20 years, while neglected units may fail sooner (around 10 years). Frequent repairs on older units might make air con replacement more cost-effective.
Most air conditioners have a 10-year lifespan. Finding spare parts for units older than 10 years can be challenging. Consider air conditioner replacement if your unit requires frequent major repairs.
The end of an air conditioner’s lifespan (typically around 10 years) is a clear replacement indicator.
While regular maintenance extends an AC’s life, the eventual decline in efficiency is inevitable.
Difficulty Cooling the Room
Experiencing uneven cooling, inadequate cooling, aircon not blowing cold air, or no airflow from your air conditioner can indicate potential issues. These problems could stem from worn-out components, ductwork problems, thermostat malfunctions, or a failing compressor.
Common Symptoms:
- Uneven Cooling: One room is significantly cooler than others, even with the same temperature setting.
- Inadequate Cooling: The air conditioner struggles to cool the room, even at a low temperature.
- No Airflow: No or significantly reduced airflow from the vents.
- Slow Cooling: The unit takes excessive time to cool down the room.
- Inconsistent Temperature Regulation: Difficulty maintaining the desired temperature over extended periods.
Possible Causes:
- Worn-Out Components: Aging air conditioners may have deteriorated parts, reducing efficiency.
- Ductwork Issues: Leaky, damaged, or poorly insulated ducts can hinder airflow.
- Thermostat Problems: Incorrect thermostat settings or malfunctions can prevent proper cooling.
- Compressor Failure: A failing compressor can significantly impact cooling performance.
Having these problems can be a reason why replacement of your air conditioner is the next step.
Home Environment Making You Uncomfortable
Are you experiencing discomfort in your home, such as excessive warmth in summer and cold in winter, even with the thermostat set correctly? Have you noticed increased allergy symptoms, particularly when the air conditioner is running? These could be indicators that your air conditioning system is not functioning optimally or may be unsuitable for your needs.
Other Warning Signs:
- Increased Dust Accumulation: If your home is gathering more dust than usual, it could signal a failing air conditioner despite regular cleaning and filter changes. Clogged filters can reduce airflow and trap dust particles, leading to poor air quality.
- Deteriorating Indoor Air Quality: Air conditioners play a crucial role in improving indoor air quality. If dust accumulates even after addressing filter issues, it may be a sign that the unit is failing and needs aircon replacement.
If you’re experiencing discomfort, increased dust, or worsening allergies despite having a functioning air conditioning system, it’s essential to investigate potential issues. This could involve a professional inspection to determine the root cause and recommend necessary repairs or a system upgrade.
Requiring Frequent and Costly Maintenance
If your air conditioner is out of warranty and requires significant repairs, replacing AC might be more cost-effective. Even if the air conditioner replacement costs a little more, you’ll benefit from the improved performance of a new system.
Minor, frequent repairs may not seem expensive at first, but they add up over time. Ideally, your air conditioner should only need one major repair in its lifetime. If you’re keeping up with regular maintenance, breakdowns should be rare. It’s recommended that your unit be serviced yearly to ensure it’s clean and clear of blockages. If you find yourself repairing your air conditioner multiple times a year, replacing it could save you money in the long run.
Major repairs after the warranty expires can signal future problems, making it wise to start shopping for a new unit rather than investing in an aging one. If the repair costs are 30-40% of the system’s value, it’s time to replace air conditioner and enjoy the peace of mind with a new warranty and a more efficient system.
Leakage and Moisture Problems
Air conditioners should remain dry, both in operation and when idle. Water accumulation around the base or active leaking of AC necessitates immediate professional attention. Refrigerant leaks are particularly dangerous due to their environmental and health hazards.
Minor condensation or dripping outside the unit is normal for some types of AC. However, excessive moisture inside the house, increased condensation, or leaks indicate potential replacement needs.
Safety is paramount as water and electrical components pose risks. Schedule repairs to diagnose the issue. Depending on the assessment, air conditioner replacement might be more cost-effective than repairs.
Unpredictable Indoor Temperatures
Inconsistent temperatures, like hot and cold rooms, are a red flag.
Air conditioners should maintain consistent temperatures, not just change them. Frequent manual adjustments or the system constantly readjusting itself indicate potential issues.
Inconsistent temperatures, such as cold spots or areas with no cool air, often signal a failing unit. This could be due to improper sizing or internal electrical problems. Aircon replacement is often the most effective solution.
An older unit might produce air at regular levels but fail to achieve the set temperature (hot or cold). This could indicate low AC refrigerant or, in the case of warm air during cooling, a damaged compressor.
Frequent Power Cycling
Unexpected shutdowns or difficulty starting to signal a serious air conditioner malfunction. Prompt, professional inspection may prevent costly replacement.
While on/off cycling is normal for temperature control, frequent or random shutdowns are concerning. This “short cycling” stresses the unit and can cause premature failure.
Contact a technician immediately who can perform air conditioner services. Air conditioner replacement might be necessary in this case.
Thermostat Not Functioning
Thermostats regulate HVAC systems, informing them of desired temperatures. Malfunctioning thermostats disrupt this process, potentially necessitating air conditioner system replacement.
Global Cool Air technicians can advise on the best solutions regardless of location.
Incorrect temperature output (e.g., hot air from the AC, cold air from the heater) can result from various issues, ranging from simple mode selection errors (e.g., aircon fan-only) to serious system failures requiring replacement of your AC.
If your ducted or split system AC isn’t functioning correctly, investigate potential mode selection issues before considering more serious problems.
Corrosion and Acid Buildup in the AC Unit
Acid formation within an air conditioner is detrimental, potentially leading to system damage, reduced lifespan, or complete failure.
Causes of acid buildup include:
- Extreme heat exposure: Common in hot climates.
- Improper repairs or maintenance: Inconsistent upkeep contributes.
- Refrigerant contamination: Impurities and debris can contaminate the refrigerant.
- Aging units: Units exceeding their expected lifespan are more susceptible.
- Condensate pump leakage: Frozen evaporator coils, overflows, and cracked drip pans can cause leakage.
Acid accumulation is a common issue. Prompt intervention is crucial to prevent compressor corrosion and potential system failure. However, if corrosion has already occurred, AC replacement might be necessary.
The Advantages of Replacing Your Air Conditioner
Replacing an air conditioner, especially one requiring frequent repairs and failing to provide adequate cooling, offers several key advantages:
More Cost-Effective to Operate
Technological advancements have led to more energy-efficient air conditioning systems. Older units, due to outdated technology, are inherently less efficient. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient model can significantly reduce energy costs and improve cooling performance.
AC Unit with Optimal Capacity for Your Home
Improperly sized air conditioning units can cause significant problems. If a unit is too small or too large, it may run continuously, leading to poor humidity control and a shorter lifespan.
An undersized unit struggles to effectively cool or heat all areas of your home, especially those farthest from the unit.
When planning home renovations, consider the potential need for a new ducted air conditioning system or a different cooling system to improve energy efficiency and ensure comfortable temperatures throughout your home.
Air Conditioner Replacement is More Economical
While a new air conditioning system has a higher initial cost, its increased energy efficiency can significantly reduce your energy bills. The long-term cost of repairing an older unit might exceed the expense of upgrading to a newer, more reliable model.
Older units can become increasingly expensive as parts become obsolete or difficult to find, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. Investing in a new system can prevent these ongoing repair costs and ensure you’re not wasting money on an outdated and inefficient unit.
Increased Air Flow and Cleaner Air
Continuing to use an old air conditioner, even with regular filter replacements, can negatively impact indoor air quality. Aging units can harbour bacteria, mould, and rust, circling throughout your home despite filter efforts.
This can lead to discomfort and potential health issues caused by breathing in these contaminants.
Upgrading to a new air conditioner improves air quality and provides peace of mind. Many modern units feature advanced filtration and self-cleaning systems to ensure cleaner, healthier air circulation within your home.
Significantly Improved Cooling Efficiency
Replacing your air conditioner gives you access to the latest advancements in cooling technology. Since units typically last 15 years, a new system will incorporate decades of innovation.
While stronger airflow is an obvious benefit, newer models also offer a range of advanced climate control features. This can translate to even cooling, quieter operation, and improved overall comfort compared to older units that may suffer from weak airflow, uneven cooling, and excessive noise.
Advanced Capabilities
Upgrading to a new air conditioner allows you to enjoy modern technology’s enhanced comfort and convenience. Many newer models feature Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling remote control and smart home integration. Some units even incorporate occupancy sensors that automatically adjust operation based on room occupancy, saving energy when the room is empty.
Repair or Replace My AC: Which is Better?
Key factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your air conditioner include:
- Age & Repair Frequency: Frequent expensive repairs on an older unit often signal a need for AC replacement.
- Repair Extent: Minor issues (loose ducts, clogged drains) can be repaired. Major problems (compressor, fan motor) usually warrant replacement of your air conditioner.
- Repair Cost: Repairs exceeding 50% of a new unit’s cost usually favour replacement, especially if the warranty is expired.
- Efficiency: High-efficiency units (Energy Star rated) are more cost-effective to repair. Outdated units with low efficiency and older refrigerants should be replaced.
- Unit Size: Properly sized units (matched to room size) last longer and are more cost-effective to repair. Mismatched units often lead to premature failure and should be replaced.
Consideration:
- Ductwork: Air conditioner replacement may not always require full ductwork replacement.
- Energy Costs: Replacing an inefficient unit can significantly reduce energy bills.
Important Note: If you opt to replace your unit, make sure your old air conditioner is disposed properly.
How Long Does it Take to Install a Replacement Air Conditioner?
Replacement times for air conditioning units vary significantly depending on the job’s complexity. Simple air conditioner replacements, such as those involving split systems or floor-mounted units, can typically be completed within eight hours.
However, more complex air conditioner replacements, particularly those involving complete ducted systems where both the unit and the ductwork are being replaced, can take up to five days to complete. It’s important to note that not all ducted system replacements require this extensive timeframe.
If the existing ductwork is in good condition and only the unit needs to be replaced, the process can often be completed in less than a day.
Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs—Call Global Cool Air for Expert Assistance
If your air conditioner is showing signs of trouble (like those listed above), don’t wait! Call Global Cool Air today. We’re the air conditioning experts for all types of systems. We’re the Perth air conditioning experts for all types of AC systems including evaporative air conditioning.
We’ll help you find the perfect new system or fix your existing one and run smoothly.
The cost of a new air conditioner will vary based on factors like the size of your property and the number of rooms you need to cool or heat. We offer a range of options, including refrigerated air conditioning and evaporative cooling.
We provide expert sales and installation services no matter which part of Perth you are in.
Don’t let a malfunctioning air conditioner ruin your comfort. Contact Global Cool Air today for reliable heating and cooling solutions.
