How to Decide It’s Time for a New AC in San Marcos, TX

Everybody wants to come home to a cool space after spending time in the summer heat. Unfortunately, your AC system may not be performing optimally, failing to regulate the temperatures. Here are some signs that could indicate that it’s time to invest in an AC replacement for your San Marcos, TX home.

High Energy Bills

You may realize your energy bills are steadily increasing. On further investigation, you realize your AC is to blame. Multiple issues such as duct leaks, leaky refrigerant, and a clogged filter may cause your energy bill to shoot up.

Your system may fail to cool your place to your satisfaction despite consuming lots of energy. Replacing your AC may help you enjoy more comfort without worrying about ridiculously high energy bills.

Your System Has Limited Airflow or Blows Warm Air

Your system’s primary function is to provide cool air. It can be very frustrating if it does the opposite and blows warm air. Leakages in your ductwork, dirty condenser coils, and refrigerant leaks are some of the issues that may cause your unit to blow warm air. Also, you may notice it produces minimal amounts of air. A clogged air filter, blocked vents and ducts, leaky ducts, and blower fan problems can cause this issue.

If dirt and debris clog your filter, your system may have problems trying to draw in air. Consequently, there will be very little air available for circulation. Leaky ducts may allow lots of conditioned air to escape, while blocked ducts and vents may not allow sufficient air to pass. If your blower fan is not working well, it may fail to push the cooled air through the ductwork.

Strange Sounds

It is normal for your unit to produce soft sounds while running. Loud sounds you have never heard before communicate something is wrong with your unit. For instance, banging sounds may mean your system has some loose parts, while screeching noises may be due to a damaged fan belt.

Hissing sounds may indicate a refrigerant leak, while squealing noises may be due to fan belt issues. Whatever unusual sound you get from your unit, switch the system off immediately. This helps to prevent further damage.

Foul Odor

Unpleasant smells from your air conditioner can interfere with your indoor air quality. These odors mean you need to pay attention to your system because there is a problem. Different smells have different meanings. A burning smell may mean your system’s electrical components are burning up. Also, accumulated dust in your system could be burning, producing this smell. The smell goes away after the dust burns up.

However, you may have a more serious issue if this odor persists. Your best action is to switch off the system whenever you get a burning smell to avoid a fire outbreak. Organic growth in your AC may cause a musty or stale smell. This growth comes about when water accumulates on the drainage pan. If you get an exhaust fumes odor, fluid could be leaking into the warmer parts of your system.

Frequent Repairs

Your system comprises multiple components that work together. Since the AC works every day in summer, these parts may wear out with time. Therefore, having your technician conduct repairs once in a while is not unusual.

However, if you realize your system breaks down often, a replacement would be best for you. A new system’s initial cost may be high, but it is worth it in the long run. On the other hand, repairing your system all the time costs comfort, peace of mind, and money.

Your System Isn’t Correctly Sized

Your system may be too large or too small for your home. The AC may not cool your home efficiently in both situations. An oversized system will leave your home humid and uncomfortable. This is because it cools your house fast and shuts down without completing a cooling cycle. On the other hand, an undersized system may run nearly continuously to meet the cooling demands. This scenario increases your energy bills.

Before you replace your system, reach out to Legacy Home Services for exceptional air conditioning advice. Our professional technician will assess your system and advise whether to repair or replace your unit. They will also tell you what to check when getting a new unit.

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