Regular maintenance of the heating and cooling system can lengthen its lifespan. However, wear and tear are inevitable that replacing your HVAC system becomes necessary. We have listed below the signs that indicate the system needs a replacement.
Clues It’s Time to Replace Your HVAC System
Age of the HVAC System
An air conditioner or heat pump that is more than 10 years old and a more than 15-year-old furnace or boiler are indications that the system needs a replacement. When looking for a new unit, look for the Energy Star label. HVAC Systems with Energy Star label are highly efficient, saving you up to 20% on energy costs. Call a professional HVAC contractor to have the new system installed.
Recurrent Repairs
An HVAC system that requires recurrent repairs results in higher energy bills. The unit is also becoming more inefficient.
Irregular Room Temperature
The temperature in some rooms becomes extreme. Too cold or too hot temperatures in some rooms are telltale signs that the system is not working properly brought by inadequate insulation and duct problems.
Absence of a Programmable Thermostat
Your home is either too cold or too hot when you arrive. If no one is left at home, a programmable thermostat will allow you to set the right temperature to make your home comfortable when you arrive.
Humidity Issues
Poor system operation, leaky ductwork, and inadequate equipment lead to humidity problems.
Dust Accumulation
If your home is accumulating too much dust, it could be that the HVAC system has leaky ducts. Leaky ducts can draw air and particles from crawl spaces, attics, and basements and scatter them all over your home. Sealing the ducts can solve this problem.
Noisy HVAC System
If your unit is becoming too noisy, it is an indication of indoor coil problems and a small duct system.
Below 5 Energy Yardstick Score
A home energy yardstick score of below 5 indicates that you have an above average energy usage that leads to higher energy bills.
Questions to Ask the HVAC Contractor
It is important to ask the correct questions before purchasing a new system. Here are some questions that will help you evaluate if you found the right HVAC system for you.
- What size HVAC system is appropriate? If you have room additions, matching the specifications of your current system may not be a good option.
- Do you need multiple cooling and heating zones? A reliable and professional HVAC contractor should be able to help you choose the appropriate system that will give you better comfort and energy savings.
- What are your best alternatives? The contractor should be able to give you efficient alternatives, such as radiant heat systems, heat pumps, and forced-air heating and cooling systems.
- Should you address humidity problems in your home with either a humidifier or a home dehumidifier?
- Does the contractor have any special offers or rebates?
- Will you be getting a tax credit with the new system?
- What is the efficiency level of the new system? Aside from the lifetime operating costs, you should also consider operating costs when making a decision.
- What are the filter types they offer? Filter types vary from washable and disposable, with some capable of improving indoor air quality, like HEPA filters, that protect the family’s health.
- What service plan do they offer to protect and maintain your system?
Replacing your HVAC system does not merely start from buying a new system or installing it at home. It requires a reliable HVAC contractor and having honest communication. Contact us today for a free estimate.