When to Replace an AC Unit and What to Expect From the Installation?

hen to Replace an AC Unit and What to Expect From the Installation

It’s 100°F outside and you’re hiding away in your home to cool off when suddenly your AC goes out!

You know that the heatwave is supposed to last for the rest of the week, so what should you do? Should you rush to have the AC unit serviced or is it finally time to replace it entirely?

Working AC is essential for the health of you, your family, and your pets on those scorching summer days. To avoid an emergency AC unit replacement and being without comfort for an extended period, it’s important to know the signs that indicate your unit is reaching the end of its reliable lifespan.

Keep reading to learn more about when to replace your AC unit and what to expect from the professional installation process.

Clear Signs It’s Time to Replace Your AC Unit

Repairing an older system is often a gamble. Here are the most definitive indicators that suggest replacement is the smarter, more economical choice:

1. The Unit Is Over 10 Years Old

Age is the most straightforward indicator. While a well-maintained system might last 15 years, any AC unit over 10 to 12 years old should be monitored closely.

• Declining Efficiency: Even if it’s running, a 10-year-old unit operates at a much lower efficiency (lower SEER rating) than a modern model.
• R-22 Refrigerant: If your unit uses R-22 refrigerant (Freon), replacing it is highly advisable. R-22 has been phased out due to environmental concerns, making it extremely expensive and difficult to find for repairs. Replacing an R-22 unit with a new R-410A or R-32 unit is the best path forward.

2. Constant Problems and Escalating Repair Costs

If your AC unit is breaking down or experiencing mechanical issues over and over, it’s time for a new installation. Use the "$5,000 Rule" or "50% Rule" as a guideline:

• If the cost of a single repair approaches 50% of the cost of a new unit.
• If the combined age (years) multiplied by the repair cost (in hundreds of dollars) exceeds $5,000. (e.g., A 12-year-old unit needing a $400 repair: $12 \times 400 = 4,800. Time to consider replacement!)

3. Unusually High Energy Bills

If you notice that your energy bills are steadily climbing, even when your usage patterns haven't changed, your AC is likely struggling. When the AC isn’t running efficiently, it's wasting energy. While you may be able to repair the problem, consistent inefficiency points directly toward an outdated compressor or motor that a replacement will immediately fix.

4. Poor Airflow or Temperature Consistency

If you have the air conditioning on but the house doesn’t seem to be cooling off much, or if certain rooms are always too hot (hot spots), the unit may be undersized, overworked, or failing to distribute cooled air properly. A new, properly sized system will resolve these frustrating inconsistencies.

5. Strange Sounds and Odors

While strange sounds like thumping or banging often indicate a repairable mechanical problem, these noises also signal component stress. Pervasive smells (musty or dusty) can indicate mold growth within the coil or ductwork, which may be best addressed during a full system replacement.

What to Expect From the AC Installation Process

A professional AC installation is a precise, multi-step process that ensures your new unit is correctly sized and calibrated to your home's unique specifications.

Phase 1: Preparation and Removal (1-2 Hours)

The first step is safely disconnecting and removing the old air conditioning equipment, including the outdoor condenser unit and the indoor coil unit (located above the furnace).

• Your Role: To save your professional time and ensure a smoother process, clear out the area by the outdoor unit and the indoor furnace/air handler. Move any furniture, twigs, tools, or anything else that may get in the professional’s way. Also, put any pets away from the work areas.
• Refrigerant Recovery: The technician will safely and legally recover the old refrigerant using specialized equipment, ensuring no environmental damage.

Phase 2: Installation and Connecting Lines (3-5 Hours)

The technician will set the new outdoor condenser pad and place the new indoor coil in the air handler.

• New Components: New line sets (refrigerant piping) are often run or flushed. The electrical wiring and condensate drain lines will be connected.
• Leak Testing: The lines will be vacuumed to remove all air and moisture, and then tested for leaks before the new refrigerant is added. This is a critical step for efficiency and longevity.

Phase 3: Testing and Homeowner Education (1 Hour)

Once the new AC unit is installed and functional, the final step is ensuring you understand your new system.

• Performance Check: Your AC technician will fully test the unit's performance, checking temperature differentials, pressures, and airflow to ensure it meets factory specifications.
• Walkthrough: They’ll walk you through how the new unit and the thermostat (especially if it's a new smart thermostat) work. They will review the manual, explain maintenance needs, and answer any questions you may have, ensuring you are comfortable and confident operating your new system.

Are You Ready to Replace Your AC Unit?

Understanding the warning signs and the process takes the stress out of making a major decision. Replacing an old unit provides peace of mind, significant energy savings, and superior comfort for the next decade.

Perfect Climate Heating, Air & Plumbing has been in business since 2009. As a locally-owned and full-service heating and cooling company, we provide expert guidance and ensure your new system is sized and installed perfectly.

Now that you know when to replace your AC unit, contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your installation!