- Is your HVAC system on its last leg?
Average life of an HVAC system is 12-15 years. Air conditioners typically last 10-15 years and furnaces typically last 15+ years. Bad news, chances are the people who owned the home before you, probably didn’t take proper care of it. HVAC systems work like human beings… The older they get, the closer they are to retirement. Though some HVAC systems keep chugging beyond their average lifespan, it is always better to plan for a new system instead of freezing or sweating it out.
- Are you paying to run your system, but still uncomfortable in your home?
If you are unable to make your home comfort on hot and frigid days, it could be a sign that the HVAC system has grown weary. An efficient system (With properly sealed ductwork) will evenly heat and cool the home. An old or poorly sealed system can make the living space uncomfortable. If your regularly scheduled tune-ups are not solving the problem, its time to call your local HVAC contractor to find out about replacement options.
- Are you coughing and sneezing more than normal?
Indoor air quality [IAQ] is a major function of an HVAC system. Replacing a system will not always fix IAQ problems, but it is a good place to start. The HVAC system needs to be able to provide proper ventilation, humidity, and be capable of filtering filth out of the air you breathe. Lack of proper service can quickly result in poor IAQ, causing indoor allergies. If the inhabitants of the home are experiencing poor IAQ and it cannot be fixed by sealing duct work, new filters, or minor changes, it is time to replace the HVAC system. Contemporary HVAC systems come with improved ventilation control, which can solve IAQ and airflow issues.
- Are your energy bills increasing?
An increase in monthly energy bills could mean that your HVAC system is not working efficiently and is using more energy than it should. An energy audit is your best option. Your local HVAC company will be able to either provide the proper testing or help you contact a local energy auditor to conduct testing. Older systems can be inefficient and use more energy. Newer systems use a lot less energy. If the system cannot keep energy use at an expected level, it is likely time to upgrade to an energy-efficient HVAC system.
- Are maintenance costs becoming burdensome?
Have you been making too many calls to get your system repaired lately? Though it normally feels cheaper to keep your old system running, a series of major repairs can be expensive. If you are calling your local HVAC company for a repair every few months, you might want to think about upgrading your system. Replacement may seem expensive, but it will give a good return on investment in the long run.