Summer days in Canada are almost here, and as a homeowner, you have a difficult decision to make. Is your air conditioner up to the mark to cope with the hot, sunny days? Or is it finally the time to get it replaced?
Although getting a new air conditioner is a big investment, so is the cost of constantly repairing an old, insufficient air conditioner.
So how are you supposed to know if it’s the time to get yourself a new unit. Here we discuss some of the signs to help you make a decision.
The Air Conditioner Is More Than 10 Years Old
The first thing you need to determine is the age of your air conditioner. On average, an air conditioner serves for 10-15 years. However, if you see yourself giving your current cooling system expensive repairs lately, then it might be in the last days of its useful life.
To determine its age, look at the metal nameplate attached to the outdoor condenser unit. The nameplate usually has a manufacturing date written on it. You can also search online using the serial number or by asking an HVAC expert.
Uses R22 Refrigerant
R22 Refrigerant, also known as Freon or CFC, is an ozone-depleting substance that the Canadian government is phasing out nationwide. The sale of the substance was banned in 2001, and eventually, it will also become illegal even to use the existing R22 Refridgerant.
What it means for you is that if you have an R22-based A/C, you’ll ultimately have to get rid of it to switch to a new refrigerant (R410A). Freon prices have also increased exponentially, and if you have a refrigerant leak or any other problem related to R22, then it is a good time to replace your A/C.
Is Not Energy Efficient
The energy usage of A/C is measured in SEER. SEER is a ratio of cooling output of the air conditioner over watt-hour energy consumption. For a new air conditioner, the minimum rating is 13. Having a lower SEER rating than minimum means that it costs you a lot of money to operate. New units are more energy-efficient and reduce your carbon footprint and also save you from high electric bills. If the SEER rating of your current cooling system is below 13, then it is your cue to replace it immediately.
Does Not Work Properly
If your air conditioner is not working correctly and is causing uneven cooling or is overly noisy and leaves the indoor air humid and sticky, then it’s probably the time to invest in a new cooling system.
It is Frequently Breaking Down
If you feel like your A/C is frequently breaking down and costing you a lot of money to get it repaired, then it’s time to weigh your repair bill with the price of a new system. If your repair bill covers even half of the replacement bill and you also see other signs from the list above, then it only makes financial sense to get it replaced.
If you need any assistance in repairing or replacing your cooling system, then Nor-Can Heating & Air is here for you. We are an Air Conditioner specialist who deals with all kinds of HVAC services in Edmonton, Alberta. Visit our website for more information or call us for quick customer support.
