Most homeowners will have to fix or replace their air conditioning system at some point in their lives. Old AC units lose efficiency over time, eventually breaking down or giving out entirely. However, if you know what to look for, you can repair or replace your air conditioner before it kicks the bucket.
That’s why the heating and cooling experts at Cool By Design put together a guide to teach you some of the most common issues with old AC units.
Cool By Design is one of Oakland Park, FL’s most trusted heating and cooling companies. We’ve been repairing, replacing, and maintaining air conditioning units for over 15 years, giving us the skills needed to handle even the most demanding AC repair projects. If you want high-quality AC repair in Oakland Park, FL, at a fair and affordable price, contact the pros at Cool By Design.
Most Common Problems with an Old AC Unit
Air conditioners usually last ten to 15 years on average. However, old AC units are more prone to breaking down, making them less reliable than newer models. Below are some of the most common issues with old ac units.
1. Excess Wear and Tear
Although keeping up with your air conditioner’s routine maintenance schedule will extend your system’s lifespan, it will still experience gradual wear and tear. Internal wiring and components often deteriorate after a few years, and Florida’s humid tropical climate can speed up the process. Excess wear and tear can significantly reduce your unit’s efficiency, longevity, air quality, and more.
If your old air conditioner suffers from extensive wear and tear, it’s best to replace the unit rather than spend hundreds of dollars on repairs. Newer models won’t break down as frequently and will withstand the natural elements better than older systems. However, if your AC just needs a quick tune-up, contact Cool By Design.
2. Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your air conditioner. It plays an essential role in the cooling process, ensuring your unit produces chilled air that cools your home during Florida’s scorching summer days. However, old AC units often experience refrigerant leaks, making it difficult for them to cool homes efficiently.
Refrigerant leaks aren’t just detrimental to your air conditioner. They also adversely impact the environment.
AC refrigerant contains harmful chemicals that can significantly increase your carbon footprint. It’s also toxic to those that come in contact with it. If you believe your air conditioning has a refrigerant leak, contact a professional technician for immediate service.
3. Increased Energy Bills
Old AC units require more energy to cool your home and can dramatically increase your monthly utility payments. Upgrading to a newer model can reduce your monthly energy bills and chill your home more efficiently without requiring excess energy. It’s best to replace your air conditioner once it becomes ten years old or older to ensure it functions optimally without skyrocketing your energy bills.
4. Decreased Indoor Air Quality
Dirt, dust, and debris often accumulate in air conditioners and can cause troublesome blockages that can decrease your home’s indoor air quality. Grime often clogs your unit’s air filter and can pollute air before it reaches your home. Although changing the system’s air filter monthly or bi-monthly (depending on the model) will improve your home’s indoor air quality, newer units usually produce cleaner air than most older models.
Keeping your indoor air quality clean is vital for your health. Florida’s humid climate makes your air conditioner more susceptible to hazardous mold and mildew colonies that cause severe respiratory issues if left unaddressed. Changing your AC’s air filter regularly and upgrading to a newer model once it hits the ten-year mark will ensure your home’s indoor air quality remains immaculate for years to come.
5. Frozen Evaporator Coils
It’s common for ice to build up on air conditioning systems during hot weather, especially if it’s constantly running. Although dirty air filters and low refrigerant levels can cause ice to form around your air conditioner, frozen evaporator coils often indicate a more significant issue.
Frozen evaporator coils typically signify a faulty condenser, refrigerant leak, or a broken fan. These problems require immediate attention and can have disastrous effects on your air conditioner, regardless of its age. However, older AC units are more susceptible to faulty internal components and leaks since they often contain outdated mechanisms.
You should schedule a professional air conditioning service once you notice frozen evaporator coils on your air conditioner.
6. Pooling Water Around the Unit
Florida’s excessive humidity puts immense strain on your air conditioner’s condensate drains. Humidity creates condensation that can clog the drains when too much water collects within the unit, especially if the overflow pan becomes damaged. The excess water will continue to accumulate and eventually flood the system, causing significant damage that often costs more than a pretty penny to repair.
The overabundance of water can also form mold and mildew within your air conditioner, depleting the system’s efficiency while reducing your home’s indoor air quality. If you notice pooling water around your air conditioning system, you must contact a professional technician before the situation spirals out of control. Excessive water can cause your air conditioner to give out prematurely, especially if it’s ten years old or older.
Contact Cool By Design for Professional Air Conditioning Repair, Installation, and Maintenance Services in Oakland Park, FL
Cool By Design is Oakland Park’s number one choice for professional AC repair, installation, and maintenance services. Our team can replace your old AC unit with a new and improved system that will keep your home cool and comfortable throughout Florida’s hot summer season. We have vast experience installing and maintaining air conditioners of all shapes, sizes, and designs, qualifying us for all your air conditioning needs.
Whether you need to replace your old air conditioner or want to learn more about our AC maintenance services, Cool By Design is here to help.
Give Cool By Design a call today at 954-900-1098!
