Your air conditioner can limp along for a while before it finally quits and needs a replacement. But that doesn’t always mean that an AC repair is the best option. If your system is nearing the 10 to 15 year mark, breaking down frequently, or struggling to keep up with Riverside’s summer heat, an AC replacement could save you from putting even more money into a system that’s nearing the end of its life span.
Our team at Hush Air Heating & Air Conditioning helps Riverside homeowners compare their AC repair and replacement options based on what the system is actually doing, not just its age. Here’s what to know and how to plan ahead.
How Do I Know if My AC Needs to Be Replaced?
If your AC system is still cooling down your house evenly, your power bills are stable, and it only needs an occasional AC repair, a replacement may not be necessary. At this point, you can wait and see or ask us to assess your unit to get a better idea of what’s really going on. An AC replacement is more practical when you’re seeing several problems at once:
- Frequent AC repair calls
- Rising electric bills
- Rooms that stay warmer than the rest of the house
- Long cooling cycles that still don’t reach the thermostat setting
- Expensive compressor or refrigerant-related repairs
- An older system with a refrigerant that is becoming harder or more expensive to service
The idea is to look at how much you’re spending to keep an aging system up and running and what you’re getting in return.
What Size Air Conditioner Does My Home Need?
Even if your current AC system has worked well, you shouldn’t assume you need the same size as the old one. It may not have ever been the right size, or your home may have changed. Whether you updated your insulation, replaced windows, or people have moved in and out of your home, you may have different cooling needs. A properly sized AC should be based on the home’s cooling load and not just the square footage. An oversized unit can cool too quickly and shut off before removing enough humidity. An undersized unit can run constantly and still struggle on hot afternoons.
Check the Ductwork Before Installing New Equipment
Your AC unit may not be the problem and you could have poor airflow from undersized, damaged, leaking, or badly balanced ductwork. Before AC installation, ask about an airflow check and static pressure, which is how much resistance the blower is working against inside the duct system. If it’s too high, even new equipment can be louder, less efficient, and harder on motors.
Should I Choose a Higher-Efficiency AC?
Higher-efficiency AC units could help reduce cooling costs, but the most expensive system isn’t automatically the best fit for your home. Our team can guide you through your options while considering equipment efficiency, installation quality, warranty coverage, operating costs, and how long you plan to stay in the home.
Call Hush Air Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule your AC installation or replacement.