Do You Need a New Air Conditioner in Jacksonville, FL?

With the legendary heat of summer in Jacksonville, FL, fast approaching, it’s wise to remember that air conditioners are unfortunately no exception to the adage that nothing lasts forever. Even with regular maintenance and diligent care, every appliance is bound to expire sooner or later. Here are some important signs that your air conditioner is nearing the end of its days:

Your System Is Old

As a rule, once an AC system is 20 years old or older, it’s a good idea to change it out for a new model. Regular maintenance by trained service technicians and replacing defective parts can extend the life of your air conditioner quite a bit, but over time, the costs of doing these things can grow to a prohibitive level.

Your Energy Costs Are Exploding

If you notice your energy bills suddenly and inexplicably ballooning during the spring or summer, this is a strong sign that your AC system may be on its last legs. If your energy costs sharply rise, this doesn’t necessarily mean that your utility company has raised its rates. It may be that your air conditioner is old, losing its power to cool and overdue for a replacement.

You Notice Loud Noises or Foul Smells

Loud bangs, squeaking sounds, whirring, whistling, rattling or other noises are all signs of underlying issues affecting the performance of your AC system. The specific issue afflicting your system varies with the type of noise that it emits. For example, a banging noise may be a sign of a broken compressor, while whistling or squealing may indicate a refrigerant leak.

Similarly, foul-smelling air should never emerge from your air conditioner. If it does, this could indicate a significant underlying problem. Possible reasons for foul smells include biological contaminants in your air filter, a clogged drain line, a refrigerant leak or a dead animal trapped in the air conditioner.

Excessive Moisture Is Building Up

Every AC system inevitably generates some amount of condensation, but if you notice extreme amounts of it building up, this could indicate that your system is leaking refrigerant or that its evaporator coil has malfunctioned. Accumulating condensation can eventually lead to the buildup of microbial in your ducts, which will lead to even more serious issues.

Although deciding to replace an air conditioner is somewhat subjective, it’s worth considering if you notice some of the signs above. When you’re ready for a new AC system, call Cool Connections, Inc. for expert AC installation services in Jacksonville, FL.

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