HVAC services are some of the most sought-after services when it comes to home maintenance. Air conditioning is a big investment, but no matter how much you have invested in your HVAC system, a time will come when you will need to replace the system. It is inevitable because damaged or old HVAC systems will result in poor air quality and increased energy bills. To ensure that your HVAC is in good condition, it should undergo maintenance at least two times per year. How do you know that it is time to replace the HVAC system?

Cost of Repairs Start to Add Up

In any working machine, mechanical parts are related to each other in that they are designed to share a similar lifespan. When one part fails, unless it is completely isolated from the rest, the others will not work as expected or might not even work at all. The same applies to the HVAC system. When some parts start to fail, there is a possibility there may be other problems lurking around the corner. These failures end up becoming inconvenient, and the cost of repairs starts to increase. This is the first sign that you should replace the entire system.

Age

The lifespan of a typical HVAC unit is 8 to 20 years. The wide range in lifespan is due to several factors such as:
  1. Installation: Was the unit properly installed?
  2. Quality – Different companies offer different qualities. Cheap units often come with cheap parts.
  3. Maintenance – Proper maintenance should be done, especially to coils, air filtration systems, thermostats, motors, and computer boards, among others.
Companies offering HVAC services can help in maintaining your HVAC unit so that it can last longer. If the unit has outlived its lifespan, then it’s high time you should look for a replacement.

Inconsistent Temperature

An old HVAC unit will, in most cases, have trouble keeping the temperature consistent. There are many reasons why this can happen, including cracked ducts, clogged filters, an inaccurate thermostat, or low fluid levels. This can be a serious issue if the system is a commercial HVAC meant to serve large buildings with a high number of people. Opting to keep such a system will cause an increase in energy bills and create an uncomfortable atmosphere in the building. Inconsistencies in temperature may also be a result of the system not being strong enough to supply air throughout the house or office. It might also be caused by poorly fitted ductwork.

Increased Dust Around The House

HVAC units are not only meant to cool or heat homes, but they are also designed to provide ventilation. When working as required, the system is meant to improve air quality by removing dust as well as controlling air humidity. Therefore, when you notice that the dust around the house has increased, then you should know that the system is no longer working efficiently in filtering the dust from the air.

Unusual Sounds

An HVAC unit is supposed to operate quietly. Just like any other piece of machinery, as time goes on, the components become older, and you might notice unusual sounds such as squealing and grinding coming from the system. You can call companies that offer HVAC services to come and check it out. They may advise you on the best way to move forward, either repairing the system or replacing the unit.

Reliability

If your system has undergone repairs several times in the last couple of years, know that its reliability has declined and may require a complete replacement. Even if the system is always fixed after it fails, the cost of those repairs will keep on piling up, and eventually, it might become more expensive than buying a new unit. You should trust the experience of your contractor or a maintenance man and follow their guidance. After completing every HVAC service in your house, the contractor should let you know the overall performance of your unit, including whether it’s just one component failing or the entire system. A good contractor should explain the problem in a way that you understand and share the reasons for their recommendations.
Tom Knittle
President