Cool Insights | Spring 2025

Three Signs It's Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Wondering whether to repair or replace your AC? While repairs may seem like the economical choice, repeated issues can quickly add up. Here are three signs it may be time to invest in a new system:
1. Age of Your Unit
Most air conditioners last 10-15 years with regular use. If yours is nearing the end of that range and needs frequent repairs or isn't cooling like it used to, a replacement may be the smarter long-term solution.

2. Declining Performance and Rising Bills
If your AC isn't cooling evenly or quickly- despite regular maintenance it could be losing efficiency. According to the Department of Energy, newer models are significantly more energy-efficient, potentially cutting cooling costs by 20%-50% per year.

3. Poor Indoor Air Quality
A healthy AC system also helps control humidity and filter out allergens. If you notice increased moisture or allergy symptoms, especially during Michigan's humid summers, your system may be struggling to keep up.

The Best Taco Tomatoes

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3/4 lb. ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 (1-oz.) packet taco seasoning
  • 4 large, ripe beefsteak tomatoes
  • 1/2 c. shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1/2 c. shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/4 c. sour cream

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil. Add onion and cook, stirring, until soft, 5 minutes. Add ground beef and taco seasoning. Cook, breaking up meat with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, 8 minutes. Drain fat.
  2. Flip over tomatoes so they're stem-side down and slice to make 6 wedges, being careful not to cut all the way through. Carefully spread open wedges.
  3. Divide taco meat among tomatoes, then top each with cheese, lettuce, and sour cream before serving.

https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a54559/taco-tomatoes-recipe/