Does your home feel more like a sauna than a sanctuary in the summer? If your AC is struggling to keep you cool, making weird noises, or constantly breaking down, it might be time to replace it.
At CARJON, we’ve helped thousands of Rhode Island homeowners stay cool with expert HVAC system repair and replacement. If your AC isn’t keeping you comfortable, we can diagnose the issue and recommend the best solution, whether that’s a simple repair or a full-on replacement.
But how do you know when it’s time to replace your AC? Keep reading to learn the top warning signs your AC is failing.
1. Your AC is Wasting Energy (And Costing You More Money!)
Every HVAC system loses efficiency over time, but a major drop in performance means something is wrong. If your AC is over 10 years old and struggling, an energy efficient AC replacement could save you money in the long run.
Signs of Energy Efficiency Issues
Longer cooling cycles – Your AC runs constantly but your house is still hot.
Lukewarm airflow – The air coming from your vents isn’t cold enough.
Frequent cycling – Your AC is always turning itself on and off
Inconsistent temperatures – Some rooms feel too hot, while others are too cold.
A professional inspection from CARJON can confirm whether a central air repair or replacement is the better option.
2. Your Electric Bills Keep Rising – Even When You Don’t Use More AC
If your electric bills are increasing but you aren’t using your AC more and your rate hasn’t gone up, your AC is working harder than it should. This usually happens when the system is getting old.
Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR air conditioning system could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on your electric bills, according to the US Department of Energy.
Not sure why your electric bills are out of control? CARJON can help you find out whether your AC is the problem and guide you through energy-saving upgrade options.
3. You're Paying for Repairs Over & Over Again
Is your AC constantly breaking down? You can always make repairs, but if it keeps happening, you’ll end up spending more on repairs than you would on a new AC. And, you’ll still have to replace it eventually.
The HVAC industry follows a simple rule: If your AC repair costs are more than half the price of a new system, it’s time for a replacement.
If you’ve had multiple AC repairs in the past two years, your system is likely failing. Instead of continuing to pour money into a dying system, reach out to CARJON to learn about your repair options. A new central AC or heat pump air conditioner could provide better cooling, lower energy costs, and greater peace of mind.
4. Your House Never Feels Truly Cool or Comfortable
Is your AC constantly running, but your home still feels hot and stuffy? Comfort problems like this are a clear sign that your air conditioner is no longer keeping up with your cooling demands.
Other red flags to look out for include:
Uneven temperatures – Some rooms are ice cold, and others never cool down.
Weak airflow – There’s not a lot of cool air coming from your vents.
Frequent thermostat adjustments – You keep lowering the temperature, but it doesn’t help.
5. Your AC Is Making Weird Noises or Smells Bad
Weird sounds and bad smells coming from your AC aren’t just annoying. They could be signs of a serious problem.
Common AC Noises & What They Mean
Air conditioner rattling or banging – Loose or broken parts inside the unit
Air conditioner hissing – Potential refrigerant leak
Air conditioner clicking or buzzing – Electrical issues
AC Smells & What They Mean
Musty or mildewy – Possible mold growth in your ducts or AC unit
Burning or electrical smell – Overheating motor or wiring issues
Best AC Replacement Options for Rhode Island Homes
There are a few options when replacing your air conditioner in Rhode Island.
Ductless Heat Pump Air Conditioning
Ductless mini splits are a great option for AC replacement because they offer both cooling and heating, so you can use them to make your house more comfortable all year. They don’t need to be connected to air ducts and are highly energy efficient.
Central Heat Pump Air Conditioning
Central heat pumps work very similarly to a central air conditioning system. They connect to your air ducts and deliver AC through vents that are positioned throughout your home. The difference is that a central heat pump also provides central heating.
Heat Pumps Qualify for Tax Credits!
Ductless heat pumps and central heat pumps are eligible for a 30% federal tax credit, up to $2,000 per year. The tax credit significantly reduces the cost of a heat pump installation.
Central Air Conditioning
Central air conditioners connect to your home’s ductwork and deliver cooled air throughout your home via air vents. The downside to central air conditioning is that it can only cool, so you still need a separate heating system.
How to Make Your AC Last Longer
Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently for years to come. A well-maintained AC or heat pump can last 15-20 years, while a neglected system may fail much sooner.
AC Maintenance Tips
Change Your Air Filters Regularly – Replace or clean filters every 1-3 months
Schedule Annual Tune-Ups – A professional HVAC maintenance contract helps catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs
Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear – Keep landscaping and other debris away from your outdoor unit
Check Your Thermostat Settings – Using a programmable thermostat can reduce wear and tear by preventing unnecessary cooling cycles.
If your AC is due for a tune-up, CARJON can help. We offer HVAC maintenance contracts that include annual tune-ups, priority scheduling, discounts on repairs, and more.
