Old Trusty

Is it time for a new Air Conditioning Unit?

June 15, 20253 min read

If Your AC Is Over 15 Years Old and Just Cooling "Okay," It Might Be Time to Replace It — Especially in Sterling Heights

If you're living in Sterling Heights and your air conditioner is more than 15 years old — and only sort of keeping your home cool — now is the time to start planning for a new system. At A Plus Heating, Cooling & Refrigeration, we see it all the time: units that are technically still running but struggling to keep up, especially during peak summer heat.

Don’t wait for a total breakdown in the middle of a heatwave. If your AC is aging and underperforming, this is your sign to start exploring your Sterling Heights AC replacement options.


How Do You Know It’s Time to Replace Your AC?

Here are the key signs we see across Macomb County — especially in homes in Sterling Heights, Warren, and Shelby Township:

✅ It's More Than 15 Years Old

Most AC systems are designed to last 12–15 years. After that, their efficiency drops significantly — even if they still "work."

✅ Your Energy Bills Are Rising

Older units consume more electricity just to deliver the same (or worse) level of cooling. If your summer energy bills keep creeping up, your AC is likely the culprit.

✅ Uneven Cooling or Long Run Times

If it takes hours to cool your home, or some rooms stay warmer than others, that’s a major red flag. Sterling Heights homes built in the 90s and early 2000s often have units at or beyond their expected lifespan.

✅ Frequent Repairs or Strange Noises

Are you calling for service more often than you’d like? Replacing a system can actually be more cost-effective than continuing to patch up an old one.

✅ It Uses Outdated Refrigerant (R-22)

If your AC still runs on R-22, which was officially phased out, any refrigerant leaks or repairs are going to be costly — if possible at all.


Real Example: “It Was Still Running… Until It Wasn’t”

Just last month, we got a call from a homeowner off 17 Mile and Mound in Sterling Heights. Their 18-year-old AC was “still cooling okay,” but it had started running longer and making noise. We inspected it and found it was running at barely 60% efficiency and using outdated R-22 refrigerant.

They decided to move forward with a high-efficiency replacement before the summer rush hit. The difference was immediate: faster cooling, quieter operation, and a noticeably lower electric bill. Most importantly, they avoided a mid-July breakdown


The Risks of Waiting Too Long

Every year, we get emergency calls in the middle of July and August from Sterling Heights homeowners whose systems finally gave out. When that happens, options become limited, install schedules get backed up, and costs can increase due to urgency.

By being proactive now, you’ll:

  • Get ahead of the summer rush

  • Take your time choosing an efficient, reliable system

  • Qualify for rebates, incentives, and 0% financing options

  • Enjoy lower energy bills and improved comfort right away


Why Sterling Heights Homeowners Choose A Plus Heating

We're a trusted name in Sterling Heights AC installation and replacement, known for our honest advice, no-pressure estimates, and same-day service availability. Our certified technicians will walk you through your options, explain the benefits of modern high-efficiency systems, and make sure you get a system that fits your home and your budget.

Whether you need a central air replacement, a ductless mini-split, or a high-efficiency upgrade, we've got you covered.


Get a Free Estimate on Your AC Replacement in Sterling Heights

Don’t settle for “just okay” cooling. Stay ahead of the heat and get a system that works hard for your home — not against it.

📞 Call A Plus Heating, Cooling & Refrigeration today at (248) 629-7075
Or schedule your free in-home estimate at www.aplusheating.net

We proudly serve homeowners in Sterling Heights, Warren, Shelby Township, Troy, and across Macomb and Oakland Counties.

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