When the home air conditioning system breaks down the homeowner is often faced with the decision to repair or replace the unit. Family-owned Colepepper Services, a San Diego-based BBB A-rated plumbing, heating and cooling company, wants to make homeowners aware of the top three signs that the air conditioning system is past repair and should be replaced.
"No matter how well the air conditioning system is maintained, cleaned and repaired, it does have a life span," said Mitch Kenney, owner of Colepepper Services. "It will get to a certain age where it just cannot function effectively to lower humidity levels and keep the home cool and comfortable when it's hot and humid outside."
Homeowners need to be aware of some signs that might indicate that the central air conditioning system is reaching or has reached, the end of its life and it may be time to consider replacing it.
- Strange sounds – Just like cars and appliances, strange noises coming from the air conditioning system is an indication of internal issues. Any grating, grinding or squealing noises could be a sign that the system has some serious problems.
- Age of the air conditioner -- The air conditioning unit may last many years. At some point, the cost to maintain or repair the unit may equal the cost to replace it. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests the average life span of an air conditioning unit is 12 years. Even with regular upkeep, the system will lose productivity and output. If the A/C is approaching 12 years and is breaking down, it is wise to replace the unit. The new improvements to HVAC technology could make the home more comfortable, reduce energy bills and leave a smaller carbon footprint.
- Obsolete refrigerant – Many old air conditioners use an outdated form of refrigerant, known as Freon or R-22. For the past several years, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has been phasing out allowed production or import of this refrigerant, due to its contribution to the depletion of the ozone layer. New A/C systems must run on a new form of refrigerant, known as R-410A. As R-22 is phased out, it is difficult to service air conditioners that use it. The final phase-out ends in 2020. During this phase-out period, the cost of R-22 has risen exponentially. The homeowner will have to replace the unit eventually to use the new refrigerant.
Even if the unit does not need replacement, getting it repaired or serviced can boost its efficiency and save money.
For San Diego residents who would like help diagnosing their air conditioning issue, the professionals at Colepepper Services are ready to assist. To find out more, visit www.colepepperservices.com or call 1-619-838-1322.
About Colepepper Services
Colepepper Services, rated A by the Better Business Bureau, is a third generation family-owned and operated plumbing, heating and cooling business serving San Diego and surrounding areas. Backed by a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, Colepepper offers plumbing, drain and sewer repair, toilet repair, water filtration and gas leak detection. Colepepper Services has been awarded Best Plumbers in San Diego by Expertise, the Super Service Award by Angie's List, and Top Rated Elite Service Provider for HomeAdvisor. For more information, call 619-838-1322 or visithttp://www.colepepperservices.com/.
