I have an old AC, the casing is now yellow - is it a sign to change AC? or do I just service them?

Do you have a validity when to change AC?

Thanks.

gashout just service only. however if the refrigerant is older obsolete type, can choose to upgrade to newer aircond models but not necessary. your preference

or u prefer to migrate to inverter aircond etc

how many years old? If more than 10 then better change for more efficient one.

Electricity consumption is key. Just changed to new one, TNB bill a lot cheaper. 247 user here

my topaire is more than 25 years old. still ok

my York bought 2nd hand and now almost 13 years, still running good. just service 2 unit out of 4 after 13 years use. The service guy was shocked when i say 1st time service after 13 years. Usuall i just clean the filters by my self.touchwood

If daily usage is less than 3 hours, then just keep it. If more than 8 hours can consider replacement as you can recoup ac cost with electricity savings.

old aircon using old type gas such as R22 is the bestest.

fast cooling, reliable runs like a charm.

When you are changing the a/c to the latest type, make sure your old gas piping can handle the current refrigerant gas type and pressure.

casing turns yellow is usually kena expose by sunlight or heat, casing turns yellow usually not really an indicator to do maintenance

don't think you can do anything about the colour as you can't reverse back the colour

This post has been edited by WongTheThief: Feb 24 2025, 02:35 PM

more on energy usage and if still feels cold
if both is not good, can consider a new one

if it ain't break, don't fix it

You sembahyang or smoking ar,how come can turn yellow?

Air Cooled Split Unit (ACSU) lifespan can last 10~15 years. Post this duration, if the unit no longer deliver the coolness after the regular preventive maintenance, then you can consider to get a new one.

2ndly, usually the manufacturer will keep the spare parts for 7 years only. If repairing is getting harder / cannot find the spare parts of the faulty component, then it is recommended to get the new one.

3rdly, if your unit is using R22 refrigerant, just change and get the new one. R22 refrigerant has been phased out due to ozone depletion characteristic.

Re-paint perhaps

Even indoor all plastic will eventually becomes yellowish. The common plastic PP, PE and PVC will turn to yellow faster than more expensive one like polyester, polycarbnate, etc. Most common cause is UV light more than heat inside house.

When your compressor PCD board burns and you realized replacing the board is only slightly cheaper than getting new units - then its time to change for a new one.

casing yellow, remove and repaint.
if very old (maybe over 15 years) and non inverter, you save money to new inverter model with tnb.

I can summarize from responses:

1) Change when no spare part to be found
2) Change to inverter for more power saving
3) Wear and tear will make the air-cond less efficient
4) Just change for something new.

which brand is the best for inverter...

This post has been edited by gashout: Feb 24 2025, 03:42 PM