Spring’s the season to take note of any warning signs that your AC may need to be replaced. Central air conditioners have an average service life of 10 to 15 years. However, this figure assumes regular annual preventative maintenance and may also vary depending on the average daily hours the system is operated and other variables, including the occupant’s temperature preferences. Also, if you’re going to replace a central AC, getting it done now — before the first summer heat wave spikes demand — and quicker installation and great buys on the most desirable units.

Here are some warning signs to be on the lookout for as the cooling season approaches:

• Cooling performance isn’t what it used to be. If you find you’re having to run the air conditioner longer to keep the house consistently cool, the AC may simply need a tune up. On the other hand, if the unit is approaching the end of its natural life span, wear and tear may be finally taking its toll, and it will only get worse. Replacing the unit with a new model is the preferred option to restore proper cooling and efficiency.
• Costs are rising. Most people know how much monthly energy bills normally increase during cooling season. If you’ve been seeing cost increases in excess of what’s expected — and other causes, such as rising utility rates, are ruled out — an inefficient, worn-out air conditioner may be to blame. The good news is, replacing the existing unit with a new, more energy-efficient model not only provides better cooling performance, it lowers your monthly operating costs instantly.
• Reliability is declining. If you’re paying more repair bills lately due to failing AC components, at some point it becomes less costly to cut your losses and replace the unit altogether, rather than continue to bear these mounting expenses. You’ll also put an end to the inconvenience and discomfort of living without AC while you make another appointment for professional service to repair that malfunctioning old unit yet again.

If you’re noticing some of these warning signs that your AC needs to be replaced, the professionals at Jackson & Sons are ready with options to restore cool comfort, reliability, and efficiency when it comes to how you cool your home.