If you live in a Modesto home with an older HVAC system, the question of ‘should I replace my air conditioner?’ probably comes up at least once a year. In this guide, we’re demystifying air conditioner lifespans, giving you the facts on how long you can expect your system to last, and how to know when it’s time to invest in a new system.
Key Takeaways
- Air conditioners have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years in Modesto.
- Frequent issues, poor efficiency, and weak cooling power are signs it’s time to replace your AC.
- Repairs make more sense if they cost less than 50% of the price of a new system.
- Loves Air offers fast, reliable AC repairs and replacement in Modesto, CA.
How to Tell the Age of Your AC Unit?
Every AC has a data plate or nameplate, usually found on the outdoor condenser unit. Find this nameplate, and look for either the serial number or a date of manufacture — if it only has a serial number, you can check the manufacturer’s guidelines to help decipher it. Usually, the year is found within the first four digits of the serial number. Alternatively, you can look up your AC brand and serial number using the Building Intelligence Center website.
How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?
Air conditioners are generally rated for a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, though functional AC lifespans can be shorter in the hot, arid Modesto summers. Because of this, you can’t rely on age alone to determine when you should replace your air conditioner. It’s equally important to learn the signs that your AC needs replacement.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your 15-Year-Old AC
If you’re noticing these symptoms from your home’s cooling system, it’s a sign that you’ll soon need to invest in a Modesto AC replacement:
Frequent repairs
The older your AC, the more likely it is to need repairs. While you should expect to pay for occasional tune-ups and fixes over the course of an air conditioner’s lifespan, frequent, expensive repairs are a key indicator that you’ll soon need to replace the system.
High utility bills
Another sign of a failing air conditioner is rising energy bills with no change in your usage. As air conditioners age, they need to work harder to cool the air in your home, resulting in rising utility bills.
Poor cooling performance
Another common air conditioner issue in aging systems is declining cooling power. We can’t spend every warm day at Stanislaus River, which means a functioning, reliable AC is essential. If your system just isn’t keeping up with the heat of a Modesto summer anymore, or worse, if your AC is blowing warm air, it’s time to invest in a new system.
Loud noises
While some noise is to be expected, and some noisy issues can be repaired, loud sounds from your system usually indicate a damaged or broken component. In older systems, these issues usually aren’t worth repairing, so we recommend installing a new air conditioner.
When Repairing Your AC Still Makes Sense
You shouldn’t replace your air conditioner the moment you notice an issue. Many problems can be safely repaired in systems that are within their 10 to 15-year lifespan. Minor repairs, such as replacing a failed capacitor or fixing the blower motor, are to be expected. If a repair costs 50% or more of the cost of a new AC, it’s best to invest in a new system instead.
Why Central Valley Summers Are Tough on AC Units
The hotter it is, the harder your air conditioner has to work, so it’s no surprise that air conditioners tend to struggle during the intense heat of a Modesto summer. In addition to extreme temperatures, agricultural dust, seasonal ‘cottonwood snow’ in spring, and wildfire smoke can potentially cause your AC compressor to go bad. To avoid the need for premature system replacement, you should keep up with AC maintenance, change air filters regularly, and get minor repairs as soon as you notice an issue.
What to Expect From a Professional AC Assessment
What can you expect when you work with the pros at Loves Air for an AC assessment?
- Step one: A NATE-certified technician arrives quickly after your call to inspect the unit and let you know whether it makes more sense to repair or replace the AC unit.
- Step two: We present you with a clear quote for repairs or replacement.
- Step three: With your approval, we make the necessary repairs or replace your unit.
- Step four: We thoroughly test the system, ensuring strong performance and efficiency.
- Step five: Before leaving, we provide maintenance instructions and clean up the work area.
Loves Air: AC Service You Can Trust
The technicians at Loves Air offer decades of experience, a dedication to your comfort, and ample hands-on experience, helping to keep your home comfortable, safe, and efficient through even the hottest days of the year. If you’re wondering whether to repair or replace an AC, we’d like to welcome you to the Loves family and help you put a little Love in your home. Find out why we’re the best in the Central Valley by contacting us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to repair or replace an old AC unit?
Repairs cost less upfront, but may end up being more expensive if you continue to fix an aging AC. If repairs exceed 50% of the cost of a new system, it will be more cost-effective to replace your AC.
How long do air conditioners last in Modesto’s climate?
Modesto air conditioners face more strain than in cooler parts of the country. ACs may only have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years in Modesto.
Will a new AC unit lower my energy bills?
New air conditioners are much more efficient than older systems. Even a new midrange AC can significantly reduce energy bills compared to older systems.
Does Loves Air offer financing for AC replacement?
Loves Air provides flexible financing on AC replacements. Contact us to find out how we can make a new unit more affordable.
