Did you know that approximately 87% of homes in the United States use a central air conditioner, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration? Central air conditioning is one of the best features to have in a home, but it’s important to ensure that this system gets the maintenance that it requires to run smoothly. Without proper cleanings, inspections, and air filter replacements, the costs of repairing or even replacing all or part of your central AC unit can be very high.
To avoid the need for air conditioning repair or home AC replacement, pay attention to the warning signs of replacement and repair. While this can sometimes be solved by swapping out a specific part, such as performing an AC blower motor replacement, some of these issues require complete replacement of residential AC units.
1. If you notice that the air doesn’t turn on as quickly as it should, or it doesn’t stay on for the amount of time as programmed into the thermostat, it’s time to call a residential AC repair service. This could mean that there is a problem with the thermostat, but it can also be a mechanical problem in a central AC unit.
2. One problem that can occur with central air conditioning is that the AC blower motor can break down over time. An AC motor is the part of the unit responsible for moving the blades of the fan; without a functioning motor, the AC unit will not turn on. AC blower motor replacement can be done by a qualified HVAC technician. The need for AC blower motor replacement should be evaluated before ruling out a complete replacement of a central AC unit.
3. In order to keep the air conditioner functioning at cool temperatures, AC coil replacement is sometimes required. An AC coil, also known as an evaporator coil, is the part of your HVAC unit, sometimes attached to the furnace, responsible for heat transfer. That is, this is the part that draws out the heat and moisture from the air and replaces it with cool air. If this coil is malfunctioning, it must be replaced immediately, as it is a crucial mechanism of your furnace and air conditioner.
4. Finally, there are several reasons to replace an entire AC unit. The biggest reason is if all or some of the above parts have broken down. The maintenance and replacement of multiple parts of a central air conditioning system can sometimes be more expensive than the purchase of a new unit. Additionally, if you have an older AC unit that no longer has available parts or warranty coverage, upgrading your AC unit can be a great idea. Many new AC systems are now Energy Star compliant, which can save you a lot of money on both energy costs and your property taxes each year.
If you have questions concerning the maintenance, repair, or replacement of your central air conditioner, be sure to contact a professional HVAC specialist to have your system looked at. Practicing regular maintenance on your system, such as cleanings, air filter replacements, and inspections can save you a lot of money on repairs.
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