By Othon Jarle
To prevent your HVAC unit from breaking down unexpectedly, it is important to replace it with a new one. However, it may be difficult to decide the right time your need an HVAC replacement.
In this article, we will explain how you can know when you need a new HVAC system.
· Your HVAC unit is older than 10 years
Normally, an HVAC unit is expected to last for about 10 to 15 years. Once your system is older than 10 years, you should start looking for a replacement. Even if you don’t want to replace it, the unit will start showing different signs of deterioration that will require frequent HVAC maintenance and repair.
· Your energy bills are increasing
Although seasonal changes can lead to fluctuations in your energy bills, yearly bills should look similar. However, if you notice that your energy bills in the previous bills are significantly lower than what you have now; your HVAC system may be the problem.
Generally, when your HVAC is older or inefficient, you will have to run it at higher levels. Resultantly, your energy bills will continue to go up. So, if you want to save more on energy bills, you should get a new HVAC system.
· The cost of repairs is more than half of the cost of buying a new HVAC unit
Old and inefficient HVAC units tend to require lots of HVAC maintenance and repair. Of course, the repair will also cost you some money. Therefore, you should add up the cost of HVAC repairs and compare it to the cost of buying a new HVAC system. Is the repair cost close to or higher than half of the cost of purchasing a new system? If yes, you need to replace your inefficient HVAC system with a new one.
· The temperatures inside your home are uneven
Turn on your HVAC system and go to different parts of your home. Are the temperatures the same inside all rooms? Are they different? If the temperatures are uneven, you should understand that your HVAC system has a problem.
Sometimes, the issue may be solved by replacing the ductwork. Nonetheless, there are times when you need to replace the whole unit itself.
· You can perceive odd smells and sounds inside the home
Normally, an HVAC unit should work quietly. Hence, any unusual sound or smell signifies a problem. Notably, the unusual sounds and smells could be caused by some minor problems that require repairs. However, in other cases, the HVAC system is faulty, and you need to replace it.
· The indoor air quality is poor
Is the indoor air quality of your home poor? Do you notice dust in the air in your house? These are signs that are telling you to replace your AC unit. High humidity levels, dust, mildew, and mold are some of the common factors responsible for poor indoor air quality. Unluckily, these factors have been associated with some health risks. Therefore, you should consider replacing your HVAC unit to restore the comfort of your household.
Don’t rush into buying a new HVAC system. Hire the services of an HVAC professional to check the unit. Sometimes, HVAC maintenance and repair may be enough to deal with the problem
