The Top Signs It's Time to Replace Your AC Unit

When summer hits Central New Jersey, your air conditioner becomes your home’s most valuable asset. But like all appliances, AC units don’t last forever. At Bailey Plumbing Heating Cooling, we’ve been helping local homeowners stay cool and comfortable since 1989. If your AC unit isn’t working like it used to, it may be time to consider a replacement. Here are the top signs that your air conditioner is on its last leg—and why upgrading might be the smarter choice.

1. Your AC is 10–15 Years Old

Age is one of the biggest factors in determining when to replace your air conditioner. Most systems are built to last around 10–15 years. Even if it still runs, an older unit is likely far less efficient than newer models and may be costing you more in energy bills. If your system is nearing or past that mark, it’s worth considering an upgrade.

2. Rising Energy Bills

Have your energy bills been climbing during the summer months? An aging or failing AC unit has to work harder to cool your home, which means it uses more energy. Newer systems are designed with energy efficiency in mind, and making the switch could lead to noticeable savings over time.

3. Frequent Repairs

If you’re calling for AC repairs more than once a season, it might be more cost-effective to replace the unit entirely. At Bailey Plumbing Heating Cooling, we believe in transparency—if we see that your money is better spent on a new system rather than repeated repairs, we’ll let you know.

4. Uneven Cooling or Humidity Issues

Are some rooms freezing while others are stuffy? A well-functioning AC system should cool your home evenly and regulate humidity levels. If yours isn’t doing the job, it might be a sign that your system is no longer able to perform efficiently.

5. Loud or Unusual Noises

Strange sounds like rattling, banging, or buzzing often mean trouble. While some issues can be repaired, recurring or serious noises may indicate internal damage or wear that’s better solved by replacing the system.

6. Your System Uses R-22 Refrigerant

If your AC still uses R-22 refrigerant (also known as Freon), it’s time to upgrade. This refrigerant has been phased out due to environmental concerns, and replacements are increasingly costly and hard to find.

Upgrade to Comfort You Can Count On with Bailey Plumbing Heating Cooling

If your air conditioner is showing any of these signs, our experienced Wall Township HVAC team can help you make the smart choice. We’ll assess your current system, recommend the right options for your home, and handle installation with the care and professionalism we’ve delivered across Central New Jersey for more than 30 years.

Call us today at (800) 717-1793.