An air conditioning system is a good investment for most homeowners that can have a hard decision-making process. Regardless of costs, most air conditioners work at their best beyond ten years of service.
As a homeowner, you should always keep track of all your investments. HVAC systems are not different. If you want to increase the system’s lifespan, conduct regular maintenance to spot and resolve any issues with the system.
For homeowners looking to maximize the systems they already have, this post covers the different types of HVAC units and signs that show you when you need to replace your air conditioner.
Traditional Central Air
Traditional central air conditioners circulate air through a system of supply and return ducts. The supply ducts and registers then carry the cooled air from the system to the house. As the cool air circulates through the house, it becomes warmer then it returns to the central air conditioner through registers and return ducts.
There are two types of traditional central air conditioners. The split-system central air conditioner is made of an indoor cabinet that contains an indoor heat exchanger for a heat pump.
Packaged central air conditioners place heat exchangers, compressors, blower, and fan in one cabinet. The cabinet is usually placed on a concrete slab or the roof and is a great option for small commercial buildings. Return and supply ducts come from the house through its exterior wall to connect with the packaged air conditioner.
Traditional central air conditioners have a lifespan of about 15 to 20 years. Most manufacturers typically continue to support existing systems by updating parts and making them available.
Mini-split Ductless
Mini-split ductless air conditioners are a relatively new technology in the HVAC sector. They provide a more customizable cooling experience. The system is made of an indoor fan unit that is mounted on a wall or ceiling. The fan is then connected to an outdoor condenser through a conduit and into a room.
Mini-split ductless systems are available as single-zone units for cooling a single room or multi-zone units that allow multiple indoor fans to use a single condenser.
The lifespan of mini-split ductless systems range between 10 to 16 years, with an average of 14 years.
Heat Pumps & Geothermal
As countries race to reduce their carbon footprint. Geothermal heat pumps are helping homeowners reduce the effects through efficient renewable energy.
Also known as a ground source heat pump, they are gaining acceptance in residential buildings.
The system can be used for water heating, room heating, and cooling through naturally existing heat. During summer the ground is used as a heat sink while during winter it’s used as a heat source.
The pump works by transferring heat from the ground into a building to produce heat and vice versa for a cooling effect.
A series of loops (connected pipes) are buried in the ground close to the building that requires an air conditioning system. The loop then circulates a cooling fluid that absorbs heat or relinquishes heat to the surrounding ground space.
A geothermal heat pump system operates on three key components: Earth connection subsystem, heat pump subsystem, and heat distribution subsystem.
The heat pump subsystem has an average lifespan of more than 20 years while the earth connection subsystem has a lifespan of about 25 to 50 years.
Additionally, geothermal heat pumps move between three and five times the energy consumed between a home’s interior and the ground.
Signs That Indicate Its Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Even with regular servicing, air conditioning systems reach a point where they are not as effective as before. In such instances, it’s highly advisable to replace your air conditioner instead of repairing it. Especially if the system is older than ten years.
HVAC units account for 44% of a household’s utility costs. If you are paying higher bills than that, your air conditioning system could be the source of the spike in prices. Here are a few more signs that indicate it’s time for AC replacement.
Excess Dust and Noise
If your air conditioning system is excessively noisy. It could indicate a problem with the AC indoor coil or the system is not large enough to cover your entire home.
The presence of dust could be a problem involving leaks in the duct system. Leaks reduce the efficiency of the AC system hence increasing operation costs.
Increasing Air Conditioning Expenses
If your utility bill increases without any change in the rate of use, it could be a sign of a failing system. You should also consider the amount spent on repairs and the frequency of the repairs.
Inconsistencies in Humidity and Cooling
An effective HVAC unit should remove humidity from a room by maintaining a consistent temperature. If the cooling effects are mild, the problem could be in the ductwork or the entire system is malfunctioning.
Affordable, Reliable Heating and Air Conditioning Services in Charleston, SC
At Carolina Climate Control we offer affordable, reliable heating and air conditioning services for residents in Charleston and the surrounding areas. From air conditioning installation and replacement to repair service and maintenance.
Our team of highly trained and experienced technicians is ready to help you out. Visit our website to get a free estimate when you want to replace your air conditioner. Reach out to us for the different services we offer or talk to any of our technicians about HVAC units.
