Tip #1: Keep a clean filter
Tip #2: Cut back vegetation
Tip #3: Hose it off
Tip #4: Maintain consistent temperature
Tip #5: Get an annual inspection
Tip #6: Don’t put off replacing an old system
- Longer run times
- Increased noise
- Exhibiting signs of vibration
As a general rule, anything 15 to 18 years old is nearing the end of its useful life.
Older systems have numerous costly components that can fail, including the fan and compressor. They also run the risk of springing a refrigerant leak, which can be very difficult, if not impossible, to repair.
“It often costs less to purchase a new AC system than it does to diagnose a leak, repair it, and get the system back up and running,” Fiedler notes. This is especially true for systems using the old R-22 refrigerant, which is much more expensive than the R-410a refrigerant used on units over the past 10 to 20 years.
A new AC system improves efficiency, lowering energy costs. In the near future, however, those efficiency gains will result in increased air conditioner prices.
“New federal standards on AC efficiency are going into effect in 2024,” Fiedler points out. “The new systems are going to be even more efficient than what’s available now, but also considerably more expensive. So now (late 2023) might be a really good time to invest in a new system, especially if you’re thinking the system you have is starting to wear down.”
