Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems are a staple in most American homes, keeping you cool during the hot summers while ensuring that you’re toasty and warm during the cold winters.
A reliable HVAC system can keep your home comfortable all year round. That said, even the best HVAC systems can’t last forever. And a new HVAC installation can be quite expensive. Thus, you’ll want to prepare and learn to recognize these telltale signs pointing to a failing HVAC system and telling you to upgrade.
Table of Contents
It’s Way Beyond Its Recommended Lifespan
Like any appliance or system, an HVAC system has a recommended service lifespan. HVAC systems have an average lifespan of 15–25 years, depending on how well they’re maintained.
If your HVAC system is past its recommended lifespan but still working fine, you might be wondering why you should upgrade it. Well, you don’t need the reason that your HVAC system is ‘still working’ to avoid an upgrade. You want your HVAC system to be working efficiently, which most old units fail to do.
By upgrading your old HVAC system to a newer and higher-efficiency model, you could potentially save more on its operating costs. What’s more, unlike other appliances in your home, an HVAC unit works all year round. This means that your HVAC system may have been working non-stop for the past 15–25 years. So, it’s only a matter of time before it starts causing you trouble.
If you’re ready to upgrade your old HVAC system, consider consulting local experts like Romeo Air Conditioning, a reputable HVAC installation Bonita Springs, FL contractor. They can help you find the best replacement unit for your needs.
Also, reputable contractors have the experience and tools needed for a time-efficient HVAC replacement and installation. They can help in removing the old unit and installing a new one as quickly as possible to ensure minimal disruption to your everyday life.
To know more about Romeo Air Conditioning, watch this YouTube video
Its Performance Is Failing
As your HVAC system gets older, its performance also drops as parts start to deteriorate and wear out. If your HVAC system seems to struggle in keeping your home at a consistent temperature and creating discomfort inside your home, then it’s a sign to upgrade your unit.
Besides delivering heated and cooled air, your HVAC system is also responsible for proper indoor ventilation. So, if you notice that your home is dustier than usual and indoor humidity is out of control, then it’s a sign that your HVAC may not be as efficient as before.
Of course, you might want to do simple troubleshooting such as replacing the filter or a damaged thermostat. However, consistent performance failure, even after servicing the unit, is a clear sign that you should start shopping for an upgrade.
Your Energy Bills Are Consistently Higher
Your HVAC system uses more energy every year than any other appliance in your home. And when an HVAC system reaches the point where it becomes less efficient, you’ll see it reflected on your energy bills.
However, between the rising cost of energy and other system and appliances in your home, how do you know if your HVAC is the cause of the sudden increase? You can do an energy audit to monitor and manage your energy use.
If your energy points to your HVAC system, you can consult a contractor to do some repairs or maintenance such as replacing filters or cleaning ducts. However, if repairs haven’t done anything to bring your bills down, consider upgrading to a modern unit with better technology that ensures energy efficiency.
It Requires Frequent Or Major Repairs
Speaking of repairs, your HVAC system will need repairs and replacements of worn-out parts every once in a while. However, if you call an HVAC technician more often than usual, then it’s a sign that your HVAC system needs to be upgraded.
In general, an HVAC system will need servicing twice a year. You can call an expert at least once or twice for minor services and repairs. However, if your old HVAC is still giving you trouble after two months of repair, then you may need to look for a replacement unit.
Aside from the frequent repairs, if your old HVAC system requires a major and expensive repair, then you need to consider if it’s worth the effort. Would you rather spend the same amount purchasing a newer, more efficient unit than reviving an old system that may fail months after?
Takeaway
Your HVAC is one of the most essential systems in your home. While the best HVAC systems will serve you faithfully for years, especially when well maintained and serviced regularly, nothing lasts forever.
Once you see any of the signs above, call an expert HVAC contractor to check it right away and be prepared to find a replacement, so you don’t have to suffer uncomfortable temperatures when your current unit suddenly gives out.