AC

When Should I Replace My Air Conditioner?

Hvac Tech Working On Air Conditioner Replacement In Wichita Ks

An underperforming or aging AC unit doesn’t just struggle to keep up with the heat. It can also drive up your energy bills and leave you vulnerable to sudden breakdowns. So, when should you replace your AC system? How do you know if it’s time to call a professional for air conditioner replacement.

Understanding the common signs of AC failure, the typical life expectancy of cooling systems, and the advantages of modern units can help you make the right call for your home and your budget. In this post, we’ll give you some key facts about replacing your air conditioner to help you make an informed decision.

Signs You Need an Air Conditioner Replacement

Age of Your Air Conditioner

Once your air conditioner hits 12 to 15 years of service, it’s wise to take a close look at how well it’s performing. Older systems often lose efficiency, require more repairs, and cost more to keep running, which means replacing the unit could actually save you money and hassle over time.

Air Conditioner Isn’t Cooling Properly

One of the most common signs you need a new air conditioner is poor cooling performance. If your home isn’t cooling the way it used to, or the air from the vents feels weak or warm, your system may be on its last leg. While a spring AC tune-up might offer a short-term fix, consistent poor performance is often a sign that a new air conditioner is the smarter long-term solution.

Needing More Frequent Air Conditioner Repairs

At some point, every AC system needs a repair. But if your unit is frequently breaking down, the cost of repairs can start to add up quickly. When the cost of repairing your system is approaching half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s often a smarter investment to replace it.

Rising Energy Bills

As air conditioners age, their efficiency decreases, causing them to work harder to cool your home. If you’ve noticed a steady increase in your cooling bills, it’s a sign your system may no longer be operating efficiently and could benefit from replacement.

Strange Noises or Odors

Strange sounds or foul smells coming from your AC system can signal serious internal damage. In many cases, the cost to repair these issues outweighs the benefits, making replacement the more practical solution.

Dealing with Increased Humidity

While air conditioners are primarily designed to cool your home, they also help regulate humidity. If your home is feeling unusually humid even when your AC is running, this could mean your unit is not functioning properly. A newer, more efficient system can handle both temperature and humidity control more effectively, leading to better comfort all around.

How Much Does an Air Conditioner Replacement Cost?

AC replacement cost in Wichita can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of your home and the type of system you choose. While the initial cost of replacement might seem high, the long-term benefits, such as energy savings and increased reliability, often make replacing your air conditioner the more cost-effective option.

At Mike Watson Heating & Cooling, we offer expert advice on selecting the right system based on your home’s needs. We’re proud to install high-quality AC systems that offer improved energy efficiency and superior performance to our customers.

When is the Best Time to Replace My AC?

If your air conditioner is showing signs of wear and tear, the best time to replace an AC unit is typically during the spring. This is when HVAC schedules are more flexible, so you can avoid the long wait times that come with summer emergencies. Plus, replacing your system before the heat hits ensures you won’t be left without cooling when you need it most.

Broken Air Conditioner In Wichita Kansas

Home Air Conditioner Outside In Wichita Ks Sunshine

Air Conditioner Replacement Benefits

Lower Energy Bills – New AC units are built to run more efficiently, which means they use less electricity to keep your home cool.
Improved Comfort – Upgraded air conditioner systems offer better airflow, quieter operation, and more consistent temperatures throughout your home.
Fewer Repairs – With a new system, you’ll avoid the hassle and cost of frequent service calls and emergency fixes.
Better Indoor Air Quality – Many newer models come with advanced filtration options that help reduce allergens, dust, and humidity.
Increased Home Value – A new air conditioner can make your home more attractive to buyers and may boost its resale value.

Expert Air Conditioner Replacement in Wichita, KS

When it’s time to replace your air conditioner, working with a trusted Wichita HVAC contractor can make all the difference. At Mike Watson Heating & Cooling, we’re here to guide you through the entire process – from evaluating your home’s needs, to choosing the right system, to handling your new air conditioner installation with precision and care.

Need expert advice on an air conditioning replacement? We’re here to help! Give us a call at (316) 522-3528 or contact us with your questions. We’re always happy to provide advice and answer questions free of charge with no strings attached.

Spring AC Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners

Man Working On Home Air Conditioner In Wichita Ks

Wichita heat can strike before you know it. Taking time for spring AC maintenance before the summer is a smart move. In fact, neglecting your AC after the winter can lead to unexpected issues, including your air conditioner blowing hot air. As local Wichita HVAC experts, Mike Watson Heating & Cooling knows AC problems can be expensive and unpredictable. Our spring AC maintenance checklist for homeowners will guide you through simple, easy steps that help prevent AC problems down the road.

A Step-by-step AC Checklist

AC maintenance in Wichita is a vital part of every spring cleaning routine. However, if you ever feel uncomfortable cleaning or performing the following steps, call an HVAC professional for help.

Clear Debris Around the Outdoor Unit

Walk around your outdoor HVAC system unit and remove any leaves, branches, weeds, or other debris that has built up.
Obstructions can restrict airflow, making your unit work harder and less efficiently. Proper airflow is crucial for the condenser coils to function correctly, as these coils remove heat from the air and release it back outside.

Visually Inspect the Outdoor AC Unit

Outdoor Air Conditioner Unit In Wichita Ks

Take a close look at the fins (the thin metal pieces surrounding the unit). Are they bent or damaged?Gently straighten any bent fins with a fin comb (available at most appliance stores). Also, check the casing for any signs of damage.
If you notice extensive damage on the outside of your AC, it may be time to repair or replace your air conditioner.

Make Sure the Outdoor Unit is Level

A tilted unit can cause issues with drainage and the internal components.
Check if the unit is sitting level on its pad. If not, you may need to contact professionals to reinstall the air conditioning system.

Replace or Clean the Air Filter

Woman Changing Air Filter In Wichita Ks Home

A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the evaporator coil, making your system work harder, reducing efficiency, and potentially leading to the air conditioner blowing hot air.
We recommend checking your filter monthly and replacing it every 1-3 months, especially during peak cooling season.
Some reusable filters can be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Knowing when and why to change the air filter is key to a healthy heating and cooling system.

Check and Clean Condensate Drain Line

The condensate drain line removes moisture that collects during the cooling process. A clogged drain line can cause water to back up, potentially causing leaks in the drain line and eventually damaging the electrical system.
Look for any visible blockages and gently clean them. If you notice significant blockage or water pooling, it’s best to call an HVAC contractor as soon as you can.
When it comes to AC coolant and refrigerant leaks, it’s important to take note and leave the repairs to professionals. Leaking coolant often means there’s a physical leak in the copper sealing system. This requires professional air conditioner repair and a careful, professional approach.

Visually Inspect the Indoor Blower Motor and Fan (If Accessible and Safe)

If you can safely access the blower motor and fan, visually inspect them for excessive dust or debris buildup.
Excessive debris buildup prevents airflow and can damage the AC compressor on the inside. However, avoid cleaning or maintenance on these components unless you are comfortable and familiar with your system.
When in doubt, leave the indoor unit cleaning to professionals.

Check Thermostat Settings

Woman Adjusting Thermostat In Wichita Ks Home

Set your home’s thermostat to “cool,” and make sure the temperature settings are cooler than the room’s temperature.
Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better control and energy efficiency. For more info on how thermostats can help, check out our article, “Which Thermostat is Best for My Wichita Home?“

Cooling System Start-Up (Proceed with Caution)

Turn on the power on your AC unit in the breaker box.
Set your thermostat to a cool temperature (typically a few degrees below room temperature).
Listen carefully for any unusual noises coming from the indoor or outdoor unit. Loud banging and clanking noises typically need repair and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Check if cool air is flowing from your vents. If you experience an air conditioner blowing hot air, notice strange sounds, or have weak airflow, turn off the system immediately.
We recommend calling an HVAC technician for any AC repairs. Do not attempt to troubleshoot complex issues yourself, as this could lead to further damage.

The Benefits of Spring AC Maintenance

Prioritizing spring AC maintenance brings homeowners peace of mind and has some significant benefits. For example, Angi states that homeowners can save up to $150 on average by handling the basic AC maintenance on their own.

Improved energy efficiency and lower energy bills.
Prevents costly AC breakdowns during the hot summer months.
Improved Indoor air quality.
Helps your air conditioner work properly without breakdowns.
Cuts back on the frequency of maintenance and long-term AC cost.
Reduces the likelihood of early air conditioner replacement and extends its lifespan.

Understanding Routine Air Conditioner Service and Maintenance

Taking the time for routine AC maintenance is a proactive and effective way for Wichita homeowners to improve comfort and save money throughout the summer. At Mike Watson Heating & Cooling, we know homeowners have many questions about their homes and HVAC units; we’re here to help! Give us a call at (316) 522-3528 or contact us with your questions. We’re always happy to provide advice and answer questions free of charge with no strings attached.

Man Fixing Residential Air Conditioner by using AC maintenance checklist In Wichita Ks

Tags: ac problems, air conditioning, Air filter, energy efficiency, Furnace filter, maintenance, spring, thermostat

Why Is My AC Blowing Hot Air?

Top View Of Residential Air Conditioning Unit Outdoors With Fan

So, you’ve finally decided it’s time to turn on the air conditioner, but instead of refreshing cool air coming out of the vents, you’re blasted with warm air. This is incredibly frustrating! In fact, at Mike Watson Heating & Cooling, we handle emergency AC service calls every spring and summer from frustrated Wichita homeowners who ask, “Why is my AC blowing hot air?” There are seven common causes for an air conditioner that’s not blowing cold air, and it helps to know how a central AC system works first.

How Central Air Conditioners Keep Your Home Cool

Refrigerant, like Freon, is the fluid that flows through your AC unit and cools your home. Essentially, refrigerant in the evaporator inside your home absorbs heat & humidity from the air. Then, it travels to the condenser coils outside your home and releases the heat. In order for this process to work, your cooling system must be clean, full of refrigerant, and all components must be working properly. If your AC is blowing hot air, it’s simply a matter of troubleshooting those elements to see which one is causing the issue. For more about how central air conditioners work, visit energysaver.gov.

7 Reasons Your AC is Blowing Warm Air

There are a few things you can check yourself to see if they’re causing warm air to come from your air conditioner. If those don’t do the trick, or you don’t feel comfortable handling them yourself, it’s best to call a trusted AC repair company like Mike Watson Heating & Cooling for AC repair.

1. Thermostat Settings Are Incorrect

It may sound obvious, but sometimes it’s a simple matter of adjusting your thermostat. Double check that the system is set to cool and the fan is set to auto. Additionally, make sure the temperature is set to a number that’s lower than the current indoor temperature. That should trigger the air conditioner to switch on, and after a minute or two you can check to see if the system is blowing cold air.

2. There’s No Power to the AC System

Another simple check is to make sure the circuit breaker for the air conditioner is turned on. If the breaker is on but then it immediately switches off when the air conditioner turns on, that’s a sign the system needs service. Call a trusted heating & air company to have your home’s AC inspected.

3. The Air Filter Is Clogged

Your home’s HVAC system includes a filter to trap dust, dirt and debris in the air as it passes through the blower. But if you have a clogged air filter, there won’t be enough airflow through the blower and over the evaporator coils. Dirty air filters make your cooling system work harder, which costs you more on your energy bills, so it’s a good idea to change your HVAC air filter every 30-90 days.

4. The Outdoor AC Unit Is Blocked

In order for the outdoor condenser unit to cool the air in your home, it needs warm air to flow through the condenser coils. Here in the Wichita area, spring is prime time for cottonwood trees to shed their blossoms. This white fluff may look beautiful floating through the air, but it can get sucked up against your outdoor AC unit and block the airflow. Check your outdoor unit and clear away any debris.

5. The Condenser Coils Are Dirty

Even if the outside of your AC condenser unit looks clean, the coils themselves could be coated with dirt, thanks to the Kansas wind. Dirty condenser coils will prevent heat from being released from your home and make your AC system operate inefficiently. Not only does this raise your electric bill in the summer, but it can also cause your AC unit to blow hot air. Scheduling an AC tune-up each spring will ensure your condenser coils are clean.

6. The Evaporator Coils Are Frozen

If you know where your evaporator coils are in the indoor blower unit, you can check to see if they have frost or ice on them. If they do, your AC unit’s condensate drain is likely clogged and will need to be cleaned. Turn off the air conditioner until the evaporator coils completely defrost and the condensate drain has been cleared. You can also have an HVAC technician handle this for you.

7. There’s a Refrigerant Leak

Without refrigerant, your air conditioning system can’t transfer heat out of the house and generate cool air, so it will just keep blowing warm air throughout your home. If there’s a small leak, you may notice the air from your AC vents getting warmer over time. But if you’re completely out of Freon, your AC will blow hot air immediately. This is an issue that will need to be addressed by a professional like Mike Watson Heating & Cooling. Not only should your HVAC technician replace the missing refrigerant, but they should also find and fix the leak.

Need Air Conditioner Repair in the Wichita Area?

Mike Watson Heating & Cooling is a trusted choice for air conditioner repairs in Wichita, KS, and surrounding areas. We’re here 24/7 for emergency AC repair so we can find the cause of your AC unit blowing hot air and then fix it so you can stay cool all summer long.

Tags: ac problems, air conditioning