5 key signs it's time to replace your air conditioner

Your Perth air conditioner can make your life significantly more comfortable in the hot summers and cooler winters. Just like all appliances, air conditioners don't perform their best forever. Units have a certain lifespan and if you've noticed that the air con isn't working like it used to, then it might be time to call in the experts. Servicing your air conditioner will mean your unit will last far longer than an unserviced unit and here at Customised Air Conditioning, we'll make sure to get the most out of what you've got. However, in the article below, we've listed 5 signs and issues that it might be time to replace your air conditioner sooner rather than later.

1. Strange noises or smells

A high-quality, expertly installed air conditioning system should run whisper quiet. Sure, sometimes there are a few unique noises but you should come to recognise, over time, what is normal and what is not. When you hear noises that you've never heard before, it's time to do something!

Generally some changes in noise might just indicate a small repair requirement. Perhaps a new fan or even just tightening up of some bolts is needed. But if the noise is more ominous sounding such as grinding or screeching then this might be a serious issue that is only repaired with a new unit.

As for odours, the same principle applies. Foul odours may just mean it's time to replace a filter (especially if it hasn't been cleaned) or there could be contaminants in the system that are causing a system-wide issue. We always hope that it will be a simple repair for our customers but strange smells can be a sign that a new unit is on the way.

2. There is less air flow

It could be a major warning sign if there is a significant drop in the amount of air coming out of your vents. This is a telltale sign that the compressor is about to go. If you're running your air conditioner at a reasonable temperature (say 21 degrees) and your home is still warm, then your air con is definitely not operating how it should. We would check the filters first but this may be time for a brand new air conditioner.

3. Your air conditioner is blowing air that is not at the temperature you set

This is the most common problem in older units. The air just isn't cold or hot anymore. It basically functions as a fan. This could be caused from low refrigerant levels or it could be something more serious such as a broken compressor.

Inconsistent temperatures can be a significant issue too. Your air conditioner is supposed to provide a consistent air temperature at the setting you’ve chosen. When certain rooms become cold zones, and others don’t seem to get any cool air at all, it could mean your air conditioning unit is on the way out. We would need to inspect the filters, valves, condensation drains and coils for air flow obstructions. But be prepared, a new air conditioner may be on the horizon.

4. Your electricity bills are much higher than normal

In summer particularly, electricity bills are going to be higher because we tend to run our air conditioners for much longer. But if you've noticed a spike out of the ordinary, then it could be your system is overworking.

Decreased cooling capacity will raise energy costs as your unit struggles to maintain the desired temperature ineffectively. We would first try cleaning the air vents, replacing the filters and then check for any lumps or knots in the condensing coil. But if the unit is quite old, it might have reached the end of it's working life and is just too inefficient and drawing too much power.

5. You find leaks or excess moisture

Assuming your air conditioner is a refrigerative unit, a small amount of condensation or water dripping on the outside of your unit (outside the house) is normal. But if you notice moisture inside the house, a sudden increase in condensation or a leak, it may be time to replace your air conditioner. We would recommend you contact us immediately so we can inspect it for safety reasons. If it is a refrigerant leak, we will find the source of the leak and advise you if it can be replaced in a cost-effective manner or if you're better off with a new unit.

If you've detected any of the 5 issues above (or something else) then it's time to call in a professional from Customised Air Conditioning. Summer is coming and no one wants to be sweating for 3 months in a row.