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Furnaces and central air conditioners are one of the biggest investments we make in our homes. Because of this, it’s only logical to want to get the absolute most out of them for as long as possible. Unfortunately, however, no matter how well you maintain your HVAC equipment, you are eventually going to have to replace this unit at some point. Old, outdated, or damaged HVAC equipment can cause issues for homeowners like increasing energy bills and poor indoor air quality. If you aren’t sure whether it’s time for you to invest in a new A/C or furnace, Five Star Home Services can help. Below we list eight signs that it might be time to replace your HVAC system.
1. You’re System Is Old
Do you know what year your air conditioning system was installed? The U.S. Department of Energy recommends that homeowners replace their air conditioning systems every 10 to 15 years. Modern air conditioners are made much better and are far more durable. Their major components start to deteriorate after around the 10-year mark, depending on how often the system is used and how well it is maintained. Air conditioners older than 10 years old are more likely to use refrigerants known as R-22. This type of freon or refrigerant is not only outdated. However, it is also harmful to the environment. Upgrading to a new air conditioner will help you reduce your carbon footprint and cut down on your monthly cooling bills. Furnaces last a lot longer than air conditioners. Most furnaces last upwards of 20 to 30 years. However, this does not mean you should wait that long to replace your home heating system. After about 15 years or so of usage, you should consider getting a furnace replacement if your heater has been having problems and requiring furnace repairs. In any case, when it comes to any sort of HVAC equipment, preventative maintenance is your best bet to make it last as long as possible. At some point, nevertheless, replacement pays for itself.
2. Your heating and/or cooling bills keep increasing
Although seasonal changes to your heating and cooling costs are normal, your bills for the same months of the different years should be about the same or similar. Higher energy bills, or higher heating and cooling costs, are another prevalent sign a homeowner should replace or service their HVAC equipment. As heating and cooling systems get older, their energy efficiency declines. This can be fairly problematic for homeowners who don’t have these systems serviced at least one or two times each year.
Regular heating and cooling system maintenance increases the lifespan of your central air conditioning systems and keeps your A/C unit running as efficiently as possible. Nevertheless, at some point, an HVAC upgrade will be necessary. Sometimes, in fact, it literally pays for itself. Take for instance the money savings. Did you know that upgrading to a high-efficiency air conditioner can reduce your energy bills by as much as 20%? Additionally, upgrading an outdated furnace can save hundreds of dollars each year in heating costs.
3. Repair costs are more than half the cost of installing a new HVAC system
If you’re on the fence trying to make up your mind about whether to repair or replace your current HVAC system and it’s more than a decade old, installing a new HVAC system would be a much better investment. Air conditioning systems require repairs from time to time. However, if your system is in need of repairs that are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s always much smarter to invest in a new system than to keep throwing money into an older system that will eventually need replaced anyways. The same is true for a furnace. Some furnace repairs are so extensive and expensive that we strongly suggest upgrading to a new furnace.
4. Your system is unable to sustain a good comfortable temperature
Outdated HVAC systems often struggle keeping the home at a consistent, even temperature that’s comfortable. If this is happening, it could be caused by a variety of problems like a defective thermostat, a broken thermostat, low levels of fluid, clogged air filters, cracked air ducts, or damage to the fan motor. Any sort of temperature inconsistency typically means the air conditioning system is not powerful enough to push air throughout the residence. It could also be the duct work not being properly installed. In any case, opting to keep your air conditioning system the way it is will inevitably result in an uncomfortable environment in your home and increased energy costs. Not all air conditioners are created equally and with homes varying in size, layout, location and more, everyone will have unique needs when it comes to heating and cooling preferences.
5. You have more dust around the house
In addition to providing cooled and heated air throughout the home, your HVAC unit is responsible for providing adequate ventilation. When an HVAC unit is working efficiently, your HVAC system should improve your air quality by removing dust (in addition to pet dander, dirt and other particles) and keep your humidity under control. If you’ve noticed an increased amount of dust in your home, it might be a sign your air conditioner isn’t sufficient any longer.
6. Strange odors
Any sort of unusual odors or strange smells coming out of your HVAC system could be something normal or something serious. Make sure it’s not merely dust burning off, nevertheless. In any case, it is essential to turn the device off and have it inspected right away to be safe. In some situations, wiring melting away, or mold in the ducts can cause unusual odors.
7. Unusual sounds
A well-maintained HVAC system operates quietly. However, as time goes on and it gets used over the years, the individual components become older as well. Parts age as they undergo wear and tear. In any case, you might begin noticing noises like squealing and grinding. If these devices are making any unusual noises, you should have the system inspected right away.
8. You have poor Indoor Air Quality
During the summer months, air conditioners are most likely the single biggest factor when it comes to indoor air quality. If you have any mildew, mold, dust or unusual humidity levels, you might be dealing with a damaged air conditioner or an outdated system that needs to be replaced. Because HVAC systems are inexplicably linked to Indoor Air Quality, having a heating & cooling expert like Five Star Home Services work on your HVAC equipment is important. We keep both of these essential factors in mind when working on a residential furnace or air conditioner. We believe you deserve optimal home comfort, in addition to optimal indoor air quality.
Call Five Star Home Services today to discuss all your HVAC replacement options
If you’ve started to notice any of these signs with your HVAC system, call Five Star Home Services today. Our team of NATE-certified HVAC technicians can help you through the entire process of replacing your old HVAC unit and installing a new HVAC that suits your home and budget. We also have amazing in-house HVAC finance options.
At Five Star Home Services, we provide quality air conditioning replacement services at prices that are fair and affordable. We understand that your home, health, lifestyle and financial goals are all important factors that help us determine the best HVAC system for you. That’s why we send a heating and cooling expert to your home for a free in-home comfort consultation. Our HVAC professionals help you in determining the best comfort solution for your home. f you’re not sure whether it’s time to replace your air conditioner yet or not, give us a call today to learn more or schedule your next appointment online. Call us today!