When Should I Replace My Air Conditioner Unit in Fort Collins, CO? | Kitchener ON

Do you know if it’s time to replace your air conditioner? How long has it even been since you got the new one (is it even still new?)? An answer to this question is to find out how old the unit is. If your unit is faulty but new, repair or replacement are good options. However, there comes a time when a replacement is the best option.  

When you ask someone about living in Colorado, most of people will tell you an image of snow. Our state is home to many different professional sports in the winter, but we also have a glorious summer. If you live in Fort Collins, you understand how hot the sun can be during summertime. With hot weather approaching before you know it, have you considered what condition your air conditioner is in? Here, we’ll go through some top factors that can determine whether or not you should be replacing your air conditioning unit in Fort Collins, Colorado, in preparation for this year’s warm weather. Follow this link if you are ready to contact HVAC professionals in CO to speak about your options.

Is there a Best Time to Replace My Air Conditioner? 

Yes! The preferred time of the year to replace an air conditioning unit in Colorado is either during the spring season or during the autumn season. Why is this, you ask?  

During the summer in Fort Collins, CO, it can get hot. Hotter months are when your air conditioner works hardest during the year. It is also the most common time of year for air conditioners to break or need repairs. Getting an appointment for repairs during the busiest time of the year can sometimes result in waiting for repairs to be fully completed. From scheduling time for an inspection to ordered parts arriving on time, many different pieces of the puzzle can delay your repairs during the busy season. Delays can mean 90 degree days without cold air, making those hot summer days nearly unbearable inside your home. We recommend preparing for the summer months ahead of time.   

Having an HVAC professional complete routine maintenance on your air conditioning unit can help ensure your unit functions appropriately in the coming months. This is why we suggest having your unit serviced in the spring and fall. Maintaining an adequately preserved air conditioning unit can save you a lot of money on your electricity bill during the hot months, as well as headaches and stress due to the heat of repair delays. Help yourself and have your air conditioner checked this spring. If it is time to replace your air conditioning, your summer self will thank you! 

How Do You Know When it’s Time to Replace Your AC?

Air conditioners in Fort Collins live forever, right? If only! The standard lifespan of an AC unit is ten years. However, depending on the stress of use and maintenance over time, each air conditioner needs to be replaced at a different point in time. Here are several indicators that help us determine when to replace your AC unit.

Air Flow 

So you’re getting cool air, but your air conditioner isn’t blowing out with the same strength as it used to. This is an indicator of various difficulties, ranging from problems with your air conditioner’s compressor or blocked and damaged vents and many more. While it is possible to have a professional handle these repairs, they may be rather costly, depending on the age of your system and the depth of the problem that the contractor finds after inspection. If the expenditures become too expensive, you may want to consider purchasing a new machine. The long-term benefits could favor replacing your AC unit with a new one.  

Not Getting Cold Air

Maybe it is obvious, but if you are not getting any cold air, there is something wrong with your air conditioner. A variety of concerns, from low Freon levels to a damaged compressor, might be the culprit of the warm air pumping from your air conditioning unit. Call a professional or file a claim if you have a home warranty when this happens. There’s no need to put off beating the heat. If the repair is substantial, you may need to consider a replacement. Our trained technicians at Bauer Mechanical HVAC will give you an estimate based on integrity. 

Leaks and Moisture around the AC Unit

While slight condensation surrounding an air conditioner is considered standard, excessive leaking can indicate a more significant issue. If you have a refrigerant leak or see significant pools of water surrounding your AC unit, you may have a considerable problem that must be treated immediately. Leaking coolant can be hazardous to your health and the health of your family. Severe water leakage can harm flooring or furniture and even lead to mold development. These problems may seem insignificant at first but, over time, will build into a more significant health issue for those in your home. Solicit the assistance of a professional as soon as possible.  

The AC is more than 10 Years Old.

The average air conditioning unit lasts 10 to 15 years. Wow, if your system is older than that! You received a fantastic return on your investment. However, with newer models more focused on eco-friendly energy, you may be able to save money in the long term by upgrading. When your older system fails, use it as a chance to switch to a more current configuration and bask in the efficiency of a modern air conditioner. Even your electricity bill will thank you!  

Your AC needs Repairs Often.

If you find yourself continuously paying to have the same equipment serviced, it may be time to call it quits. At some point, it will be more cost-effective to replace it. After all, repairs that aren’t covered by a house warranty could be costly. It is only a matter of time before the cost of repairs equals or exceeds the costs of installing a new AC unit. Take the time to do the math and see how your repair costs stand up to installation costs.  

Spring is the Best Time of the Year to Replace your AC in Fort Collins, CO

When installing a new AC unit, homeowners need the time of year into consideration. There’s a lot to be noted about the ideal window of opportunity. Still, the reality is that each season has its advantages and disadvantages, which vary based on your environment. There are more suitable seasons than others, and it is prudent to take that under serious consideration.  

Contrary to common perception, summer is not the most advised season to buy and install an air conditioner because summer is when air conditioning units fail most frequently. In most circumstances, the off-season is ideal. Winter in Fort Collins, CO, often brings an abundance of winter weather, which are not ideal outdoor installation conditions. Autumn is after the heatwave, which is always a good time to have your unit serviced for the change of seasons. This leaves spring as the perfect time to update an air conditioner, leaving you prepared for the imminent warm weather of summer. 

Do Your Research, Get Estimates Before Replacing your AC Unit

As summer approaches, it is not uncommon for many homeowners to hurry to prepare their air conditioning equipment for the impending heat. Whether you are installing a new AC unit or hiring an HVAC professional to handle maintenance and repairs, one thing is certain: the HVAC industry is active right now. Consequently, when they are suddenly charged with acquiring a replacement air conditioner, some homeowners may feel pressured. We want to encourage you to take a moment and do some research.  

You will have no issue buying what you need before the summer rush if you prepare ahead of time. Information about rates and installation services with different companies is readily available online. Maybe you are also more likely to leverage a deal since you do not depend on a new unit for air at this moment. 

Read reviews of your local companies, and choose those that stand out to you. After looking over their services offered, call to schedule an initial inspection and request an estimate. You can start with Bauer Mechanical, serving the Fort Collins, CO, and surrounding areas. Choose the company you feel most comfortable working with during the estimation process; the one that fits your budget and needs best.  

Bauer Mechanical is your Local HVAC Company

Bauer Mechanical has been serving the Colorado communities of Loveland, Fort Collins, and surrounding areas for more than a decade. We are your local HVAC company that prioritizes integrity during every job. Whether you are looking to replace your air conditioner, replace your furnace, or obtain regular maintenance of your appliances, Bauer Mechanical is here for you. You can depend on Bauer Mechanical for honest, professional, friendly service that comes with a positive experience. Call us to find out how we can help you with all of your HVAC needs in Colorado today!