HVAC

It's hot and humid in Florida, and you rely on your AC more than most places. If your current unit is showing any of these signs, it's not just about comfort; it's about protecting your wallet, your health, and your home:

Performance and efficiency

• You're feeling the heat (literally). If your AC is struggling to cool your home or leaving some rooms feeling like saunas, it's a clear sign of diminished capacity. This often stems from a weak compressor or low refrigerant levels. An older unit might even be blowing warm air instead of cool air, according to Smith & Keene.
• Your energy bills are soaring. As your AC unit ages, its efficiency naturally declines. This means it has to work harder to achieve the desired temperature, consuming more electricity and driving up your utility bills. In fact, an older unit can be up to 9% less efficient for every incremental loss in its SEER rating.
• It's constantly running or short cycling. An AC unit that constantly turns on and off (short-cycling) is a sign of an overworked system. This can be due to a variety of issues, including an incorrectly sized unit for your home or problems with the refrigerant or compressor.

Reliability and longevity

• You're experiencing frequent breakdowns. If your AC unit is always needing repairs, it's likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Continuing to pour money into an aging system often proves more costly than investing in a new, more reliable unit.
• It's past its prime. The average lifespan of a central AC unit in Florida is 10-15 years, according to energy.gov. However, in Florida, it's more likely 8-10 years due to the constant use and harsh climate. If your AC is approaching or has exceeded this age range, it's a good idea to consider a replacement.

Health and safety

• Foul odors are emanating from the vents. Musty smells could indicate mold and mildew growth in the ductwork or even within the AC system itself. If the odor is of burning metal or plastic, it might indicate serious electrical issues that need immediate attention.
• Your home feels excessively humid. Your AC is designed to remove humidity from the air, and if your home feels damp and clammy even with the unit running, it's a sign it's not performing this crucial function effectively. Excessive humidity can lead to mold growth and even damage your home's structure and contents.
• You're concerned about indoor air quality. An old AC unit with dirty filters and leaky ducts can circulate allergens, dust, and other contaminants throughout your home, potentially exacerbating respiratory problems, according to PFO Heating & Air Conditioning. In severe cases, an aging AC unit can even pose a risk of fire due to electrical malfunctions or structural damage.

Cost savings and home value

• You could be enjoying lower energy bills. Replacing your outdated unit with a new, energy-efficient model can lead to significant savings on your monthly utility costs, according to JNH Cooling Services. Some homeowners can expect to see a noticeable decrease in their energy bills with the installation of a new, high-efficiency system.
• You could increase your home's value. A new, energy-efficient AC system can be a major selling point in the Florida market, increasing your home's value and attracting potential buyers. Homes with newer AC units tend to sell faster and for a higher price, according to a 2023 Zillow report.
• You might be eligible for tax credits and rebates. The federal government and some Florida utilities offer incentives for installing energy-efficient AC systems, which can further offset the cost of a replacement. Florida homeowners can claim a tax credit of up to $600 for installing an energy-efficient central air conditioner, according to the Inflation Reduction Act.

In short, hanging onto an aging AC unit in Florida can be a costly, uncomfortable, and potentially unsafe gamble. Upgrading now can not only provide you with a more comfortable and energy-efficient home but also boost your property's value and potentially save you money in the long run.