If you’re a homeowner in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, you know that during the warmer months of the year, you need air conditioning that works. If you have an older system, you’ll probably have to deal with more and more breakdowns and repairs. Nobody wants to keep paying to repair a system that’s nearing the end of its useful life, but at what point should you replace it? Here are some signs that it might be time to upgrade your home’s air conditioning system.

Higher Utility Bills

Higher-than-normal utility bills can be a sign that your AC unit is losing efficiency. A less efficient system will have to work harder to achieve the desired temperature. The harder your system works, the more energy it uses, which translates into higher energy bills.

System Age of 10 Years or More

Most older AC units were designed to last between 12 and 15 years. If you’ve had your system for more than 10 years, it could be time to start shopping for a new model. Chances are that soon it will begin to work less efficiently and break down more often.

Higher Humidity

The two goals of an AC system are to cool the air and to lower the humidity. If your home has been feeling hot and sticky, it could be a sign that your AC unit is no longer functioning as it should.

Frequent Service Calls

If you find that you’re placing more than two service calls per year, your system may be deteriorating. Regular maintenance plus an occasional repair is considered normal. Anything over that is considered to be excessive. Even though repair is cheaper than replacement in the short term, those repair costs will add up quickly, and you will eventually have to replace the system.

Whether you’re experiencing high energy bills, frequent breakdowns, or just have an older system, upgrading to an energy-efficient AC unit is the best solution if you can afford it. Let us help with this process or with any other HVAC issue by calling One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® of Baton Rouge at (225) 320-4162 today.