During the summer months, you begin to rely on your air conditioner to keep your home cool and comfortable. But what happens when your air conditioner starts to act up? When should you replace or repair your air conditioner?

You can do a few things to extend the life of your air conditioner and avoid the need for repairs or replacement. First, be sure to change your air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your air conditioner to work harder, leading to premature wear and tear.

Second, keep your air conditioner clean. A clean air conditioner will operate more efficiently and is less likely to break down. Be sure to clean the coils and fins on your air conditioner regularly.

If your air conditioner does break down, you should know the signs when it needs a repair or a complete replacement.

Signs Your AC Needs Repair

There are a few telltale signs that your air conditioner needs repair, and it’s essential to be aware of them so you can call for repairs before the problem gets too bad.

1. The AC Isn’t Blowing Cold Air
   One of the most common signs that your air conditioner needs repair is if it’s not blowing cold air. If you notice that your air conditioner is blowing warm air, or if the airflow is weak, then it’s time to call for repairs.

2. It’s Making Noises
   Another common sign that your air conditioner needs repair is if it’s making strange noises. If you hear any banging, grinding, or squealing noises from your air conditioner, it’s time to call for repairs.

3. There’s a Leak
   If your air conditioner is leaking water, that’s another sign that it needs to be repaired. Water leaks can damage your flooring and furniture, so you must call for repairs as soon as you notice a leak.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to call for air conditioner repairs as soon as possible. The sooner you get the problem fixed, the less damage it will cause and the less money you’ll have to spend on repairs.

Signs Your AC Needs Replacement

If your air conditioner is more than ten years old, it may be time to start thinking about replacing it. Here are some signs that your AC may need to be replaced:

1. Your Energy Bills Are Rising
   If your air conditioner works overtime to cool your home, it will show up on your energy bill. If you’ve noticed a sudden and unexplained increase in energy usage, it could be a sign that your air conditioner is no longer as efficient as it once was. When this occurs, you may have to replace it.

2. The Unit Isn’t Cooling Your Home Evenly
   If you notice that your air conditioner is no longer cooling your home evenly, it’s a sign that it’s not working as efficiently as it used to. Several different issues can cause this, so it’s essential to call a professional to take a look.

3. The Unit Is Constantly Cycling On and Off
   If your air conditioner is constantly turning on and off, it’s a sign that it’s overworked and needs to be replaced. This problem may occur due to an oversized unit that is too powerful for the space it’s trying to cool.

Conclusion

It’s no secret that air conditioners don’t last forever. In fact, most units only have a lifespan of about 15 years. If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it’s time to call a professional to take a look at your AC unit. They can help you determine if it’s time to replace your AC or if it can be repaired.

Need an AC repair in Berkeley? L.J. Kruse Co. is a plumbing, heating, and cooling company located in Berkeley, California, serving residential and commercial clients. The company is family-owned and operated, and we can take care of your AC repair concerns.