Air conditioning: 5 signs that it's time to change yours

According to a UN report, published in 2020, having efficient air conditioning can prevent the emission of greenhouse gases

Refrigeration technology has become increasingly important to the world due to climate variations. It protects, for example, people from extreme heat, helps to keep food fresh and is essential for storing vaccines and medicines. More than comfort, air conditioning has become an essential item for human well-being. But, after all, how do you know the right time to change the device?

• For lower energy consumption Enel offers 50% discount on household appliances
• Industrial maintenance sector hires assistants, technicians and supervisors with extreme urgency
• Xiaomi applies BRL 10 billion in investments to enter the electric car industry
• With imminent risk of accident and disregard for safety standards, man climbs stairs with an air conditioning compressor without PPE
• Grupo Internacional is hiring across all roles in Brazil

According to one report of the United Nations (UN), published in 2020, having an energy-efficient and environment-friendly air conditioner can avoid the emission of up to 460 billion tons of greenhouse gases over the next 40 years. Currently, according to the document, it is estimated that there are 3,6 billion devices in use, a number that could rise to 14 billion by 2050.

The option to change or not the equipment for a new one goes beyond technical issues and signs of failure. It also means thinking about the sustainability of the planet, improving the quality of life and the savings that an efficient device can generate. 

See below five signs that it's time to change yours!

1. Is the air conditioner more than ten years old?

This may seem obvious, but if your air conditioner is getting old, it's important to start preparing for the purchase of a new unit. These products are often exposed to extreme temperatures throughout the year, which can reduce their durability.

Lifespan can also be affected by how often you use the equipment, whether or not it is properly maintained, how hot and humid it gets in the area where you live, and whether or not the unit was sized correctly at the time of purchase. . Those who live in coastal cities, for example, need to be extra careful, due to the salt air that can damage the product.

Now, for those who keep the air conditioning in good condition throughout its useful life, the period to replace it can vary, on average, from ten to 15 years.

2. Does the air conditioner break down often? 

Frequent breaks are also signs that it may be time to change the product. In fact, with rising repair costs, it may be more economical to buy a new unit.

Generally, repair costs are high, especially if the device's warranty has expired. If the damaged part is a compressor, for example, it is likely that purchasing a new air conditioner will be more viable.

But before making a decision, it is essential to consult a technician for a detailed analysis.

3. Is the air conditioner making more noise than before?

Another important sign may be related to increased noise. That is, if the device starts to emit loud noises, it is also necessary to obtain the evaluation of a qualified technician to identify if there is a problem.

It could be dirt on the filter, poor performance of some part, product wear over time, among other issues. And, depending on the professional's analysis, it may be time to replace it with a new model.

Problems in the equipment can even cause other damages, such as high consumption of electricity.

4. Do electricity bills increase dramatically?

Unless there is some sudden change in the use of energy in the house or an update of the values ​​by the public authorities, it is common for the electric bill to stay at the same value every month, fluctuating a little in the summer.

But if the monthly bill had a drastic financial rise, it might be time to consider purchasing a new air conditioner.

This is because higher energy bills may indicate that the device is defective or losing efficiency. Increased energy consumption occurs as the product ages, so the two issues may be related. 

5. Is the air conditioning not working as it used to?

One of the main signs that the air conditioner needs to be changed is when you realize that it no longer cools the environment as before. Although the feeling of comfort in relation to temperature is something very personal, it is possible to notice if the device is performing poorly.

In these cases, when the device is split and does not freeze enough, the most common problem is the lack of gas, due to a small leak in the refrigeration system. Other possible causes may be related to:

• Electrical breakdown;
• Dirty filters;
• Obstructed air vents;
• Inadequate capacity for room cooling;
•  Doors and windows open.

In addition to identifying problems that may indicate that it is time to change the air conditioning, it is essential to arrange a visit from a qualified company before buying a new device. In the site assessment, the model and capacity best suited to your needs is usually indicated.

It's the kind of care that contributes to the sustainability of your pocket, equipment and the planet.