7 Signs You Need a New Air Conditioner

Is your air conditioner struggling to keep your home cool this summer? You might need AC replacement services. While your AC might just require a repair, you won’t want to sink money and time into trying to fix a unit that ultimately has to be replaced. If you want to ensure your money is being put to best use next time you run into an AC issue, learn more about the seven main signs you need a new AC.

1. Your AC Won’t Turn On or Doesn’t Stay On Long Enough

If your AC only stays on for a very short amount of time and your house never gets to the temperature you’ve set it to, it’s a good sign something has broken in your AC or the unit has reached the end of its life. An even more alarming sign of your AC needing replacement is if your AC doesn’t turn on at all. You’ll want to schedule an HVAC inspection to determine whether your AC is broken or your thermostat is at fault.

2. Your AC Won’t Produce Cold Air

One of the most obvious signs you need a new air conditioner is if your HVAC system produces warm air instead of cool air. For example, if you have your AC set to 70 degrees, but you can only feel warm air coming out of your vents, chances are you have a serious issue with your AC. Since your AC should blow cool air when it’s working correctly, a technician will need to inspect your system to find the source of the problem.

3. Your Home Is More Humid Than Normal

When an AC performs like it’s supposed to, it will remove humidity from your home’s air through its evaporator coil. Sometimes, age or damage can cause the evaporator coil to not work as it should, making it so your system can’t remove moisture efficiently. As a result, your home will feel more humid, moisture will accumulate near your vents, and your windows might fog up. A technician can see if you just need an evaporator coil repair or if a full replacement is necessary.

4. Weak Air Flow 

Weak airflow is another sign you might need a replacement since it could be a symptom of your AC’s compressor failing. If you put your hand by your vents, you should feel a steady and strong flow of air coming out of them when the AC kicks on. Since weak air flow will make it harder for your AC to cool down your home and lead to higher energy bills, you’ll want to get an inspection fast.

5. Bad Smells

Your AC shouldn’t have any smell while it’s running. A musty smell from your AC is likely the result of mold growth inside the unit or your home’s ductwork. You’ll also want to watch out for a burning or smoky smell while the AC runs, as this could indicate a serious electrical issue. Mold or electrical issues can both be a safety hazard, so you’ll want a technician to see if your AC is at fault for any strange odors and if they recommend a full replacement.

6. Loud Noises

If your AC makes loud noises while it runs, something is probably wrong with it. Sounds like rattling, grinding, squeaking, or squealing can all indicate something has broken inside the unit, such as a belt moving out of place. While loud noises don’t always mean you need a full replacement, they shouldn’t be ignored, as leaving them unattended can cause the issue to get worse and affect your entire unit. 

7. Aging System

Typically, HVAC systems last between 15 to 20 years, depending on how well they’re maintained. As ACs age, they’ll need more frequent repairs, struggle to cool your home, and consume more energy. Since these issues can raise your bills and make you less comfortable at home, it’s often more cost-effective and convenient to replace an older unit showing signs of wear. In fact, you can usually save money in the long run by purchasing a high-performance and energy-efficient model.

Choose Newcomb and Company for Air Conditioner Replacement Services in Raleigh

When your AC shows any of the signs above and you think you might need air conditioner replacement services in Raleigh, Wilmington, or the surrounding areas, Newcomb and Company can help. Once you schedule an appointment with us, our expert HVAC technicians will evaluate your current unit’s condition. If their inspection reveals your AC needs a full replacement, they can recommend the best systems for your home, remove the old unit, and provide new AC installation services.

Alongside our AC replacement services, we can also design a custom HVAC system crafted to give you the best performance and energy efficiency possible. If you have any questions or want to make an appointment, please contact us.