5 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your HVAC System

Air conditioning systems are essential to running a comfortable home or workspace. However, as with all things, HVAC systems can fail or lose efficacy over time. What are the signs that you should consider a replacement?

1. System Age

The US Department of Energy recommends that owners should replace HVAC systems every ten years. Older systems often will cost more in repairs after a decade in use. Even if a system is of a newer variety, requiring replacement after 15 years, it can still become a drain on power efficiency. Replacing an old system can see returns in improved power usage, output, and cleanliness.

2. Increase In Dust Or Unusual Smells

Have you been noticing an increase in settling or airborne debris? Additional particulates may not be because of improper cleaning; your HVAC system could struggle to ventilate the space properly. Additionally, unsuitable circulation can cause a marketed increase in foul scents permeating your home. The build-up of unhealthy molds or burning dust and other harmful chemicals in older units can cause this and is a definitive sign of a needed replacement.

3. Strange Sounds

All properly operating HVAC systems should be mostly silent, with little to no noise outside the unit. Sounds such as grinding, loud humming, or hissing from an HVAC can mean that your system has an issue and may need to be replaced. Repairs can restore operations. However, many repairs can cost nearly as much as a complete HVAC replacement.

4. Struggling Units That Fail To Perform

If your home cannot reach set temperatures, it may be time for an HVAC replacement. Inconsistent temperature can result from poor circulation, clogged filters, broken thermostats, damaged motors, and cracked or improperly installed ductwork. Poorly performing systems can result in discomfort and increased energy bills. Every home or business requires a custom system for ducting to maintain proper pressure throughout a home, resulting in a need for a complete replacement. The sooner you take action on such results, the lower bills can be, as many of these problems can compound into other, more complex issues.

5. Costs

If you have noticed a marked increase in energy cost, despite not changing anything, it could be that your air and heating system is consuming more electricity than needed. Finally, whole system repairs on older or malfunctioning units can cost up to half or more of the price of a replacement.

If you think your HVAC system is reaching the end of its useful life, feel free to reach out to Ideal Conditions today for a free estimate on a new, energy-efficient system.