When to replace HVAC? 7 Signs You Can Identify.
When you’re in your home, you expect to be comfortable, and you have your AC working. You cannot be too cold or hot and when something is wrong with your HVAC unit, it can be a big inconvenience on your day-to-day life. Staying up to date on HVAC maintenance can ensure your system remains functional and effective for as long as possible. However, no HVAC system is indestructible and knowing when to replace HVAC systems is key.
Now, we understand you want to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth out of everything, and you don’t want to invest in an entirely new system when repairs would serve you just fine. So, when to replace HVAC systems? Let’s go over some of the signs to look out for.
Frequent HVAC Repairs.
All HVAC systems will require regular maintenance, repairs, replacements, and inspections. But if you find all that maintenance is like a temporary Band-Aid on a recurring issue or that your system is requiring lots of different kinds of repairs and replacements more frequently, it may be that your system is beyond help. You can keep spending money on something that will keep breaking, or you can invest in a new, modern system that, with regular maintenance, will last you a long time and save you money. There are lots of reasons your system might be behaving this way, from old or defective components to water damage. You want it replaced regardless. Your HVAC professional services can tell you the specifics of your situation. Ask for two quotes, a replacement quote, and a repair quote, so you know all your options!
High Electric Bills.
Another obvious reason you might need a replacement HVAC unit is that your energy and utilities bills are unusually high. This is especially true if you’ve tried other things to help your system, yet your bills remain higher than they should be. Now, we all know your energy bills fluctuate with the weather and the seasons, but this is why it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your averages. Those bills will go up during the summer, but should they be going up that much? You need to get your system looked at and evaluated for needed maintenance. If the repair costs aren’t worth it, you might just need a new system.
Climate Control Issues
If your system is failing to properly regulate the temperatures in your home, then you need to get it looked at. You’ll notice your AC is unable to keep your home at the temperature you want or maybe some parts of the house are unbearably hot while others are way too cold. This could be an issue with the thermostat, fluids, filters, ducts, etc. Your system may also be too old. Again, you want to ensure that the cost of those repairs isn’t too expensive and that they will in fact solve the problem. Otherwise, a replacement system may be in order.
HVAC System Too Old.
Modern HVAC systems have to meet certain efficiency standards for installation. If your system is in the range of 10 to 15 years old, then it likely doesn’t meet those standards. Even if your old system did meet those standards at full functionality, we highly suggest HVAC systems be replaced every 10-15 years anyways. It is at this point that they become more trouble than they are actually worth. Modern systems are more durable and, of course, regular maintenance and repairs will extend the life of a system.
Your HVAC Uses Old Refrigerant.
Speaking of old systems, older systems use a specific type of refrigerant called R22. The EPA phased out usage of this type of refrigerant because of its severe negative impact on the environment. If your system still uses R22, then it’s probably an older system and a new replacement may be safer for your home, financials, and environment.
Bad Air Quality.
Your HVAC system is also meant to clean the air that passes through it, removing all kinds of debris so that it doesn’t end up covering your furniture and your lungs. If you notice excess dust or even respiratory issues, taking a good look at your ventilation system could be the answer. Your health isn’t something you want to gamble with, especially if anyone in your household has allergies, asthma, or some other respiratory condition.
Smells and Sounds Coming Up.
If your HVAC system is producing any unusual sounds or smells, that isn’t something you want to ignore. Once the first cold front hits, you may smell some dust as it burns off from the first time you turn on the heat. Besides that, if you’re detecting a suspicious smell, you should get that checked out immediately. Bad or damaged wiring can produce smells, and that can be dangerous. You could also have mold and mildew growing in the ducts or structural components. Mold could indicate water damage, so you’d have a double whammy on your hands. Any sort of unusual noise can be a problem with specific components. Some of these problems are easy fixes but they could also be a sign of something worse. Call a professional to be sure!
You should always give professional HVAC services a call when your system isn’t operating correctly. These systems often require specific expertise to deal with. At Dr. Rescue, our professionals can answer all your questions and ensure your HVAC system is operating at peak performance!
If you believe it’s time to upgrade your HVAC system or if you’re unsure when to replace your HVAC, give us a call. At Dr. Rescue, our experts will answer your questions and ensure the climate in your home is exactly what you want it to be, always. One of our technicians will also make a recommendation based on your home and situation. We offer both Trane and Goodman HVAC systems. Give us a call (832) 458 -0642, or make an appointment.
