When Should You Consider Replacing Your Hvac System?
Being able to rely on your HVAC system to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter is very comforting.
So, when Should You Consider Replacing Your Hvac System?
Although many systems last for years, they eventually become less efficient and more expensive to run. There comes a time when annual servicing is just not enough to keep the unit in peak condition. If there are problems with your HVAC system, you may need to replace certain worn parts. At some point, the entire unit will need replacing.
Avoid over-reacting if your system malfunctions
There is no point in spending money on replacing the unit if it isn’t necessary. On the other hand, you are only postponing the inevitable by continuing to pay for repairs on an HVAC system that has seen its better days and is now inefficient. If you’re torn between paying another repair bill or just biting the bullet and replacing the entire unit, take the following three factors into consideration before making your final decision.
The utility bills are getting out of control
If you’ve noticed that your utility bills keep increasing during each of the different seasons, even though you are still setting your thermostat at the same settings, it could mean that there are severe problems with your HVAC system. HVAC systems become increasingly less efficient as they age. One indication of an aged system is leaking fluids. This normally coincides with higher utility bills.
The Air Conditioner is making loud noises
Loud, disturbing knocks and other unusual noises that occur whenever you adjust your thermostat are cause for alarm. It should be fairly obvious that something is wrong, maybe seriously wrong. For all practical purposes, it is probably time to replace something in the unit if not the entire unit. If that occasional pinging sound has become regular and much louder, call your local heating and air company for recommendations regarding repair or replacement.
The time
Believe it or not, A/C units and furnaces actually have shelf lives. The average life of an A/C unit is about 10 years while the average life of a good boiler or heating unit is about 15 years. Continuing to operate them beyond their capabilities is oftentimes costly, and risky. Malfunctioning units may cause degradation or contamination of the air inside the home.
Replacing a failing air conditioning unit while keeping an old furnace, or vice versa, can be more expensive in the long run than buying them as a pair in a complimentary system. Also, purchasing an entire HVAC system requires only one installation visit. Be sure to ask about rebates for energy efficient systems when you call an HVAC company specialist.