Is your heating and cooling system behaving abnormally? Does it break often, produce uneven temperatures, or is it old? If the answers to these questions are yes, the solution might not be repairs but replacement. Sometimes, repairing an HVAC is more costly than installing a new one, especially with regularity. If you’re torn between replacing and repairing your heating and cooling system, here are signs indicating the need for an upgrade.
- The System Is More Than 10 Or 15 Years
If your heating and cooling system has served you for over 10 or 15 years, it might be time to upgrade it. After this timeline, the system reduces efficiency and experiences frequent component malfunctions and wear. An old HVAC system doesn’t only require frequent repairs but also uses excess power, leading to high energy bills. In addition, many old HVACs use freon or R-22 coolant, a harmful chemical to the environment which has been burned from the market.
- The System Requires Regular Repairs
While professional HVAC maintenance is necessary, the frequency of maintenance matters. How often do you call a trained heating and cooling technician to repair the system? How much do you pay for each repair? If your system is slowly draining your pocket with countless maintenance, the cost could add up to that of a new, efficient unit.
However, if the system isn’t old enough to warrant regular maintenance, determine if the technician performs the correct repairs. Sometimes, a technician might be underqualified, resulting in poor repairs, which keeps recurring. If this could be happening to you in Alabama, consider hiring Auburn air conditioning repair Auburn, AL services for outstanding maintenance.
- Your Power Bill Keeps Skyrocketing
Your heating and cooling system is among the appliances using more energy in your home. Check the performance of such appliances if your power bill keeps skyrocketing every month. In most cases, homeowners in this situation may realize that the increase in power bills is due to an inefficient HVAC. Suppose your heating and cooling unit plays a considerable role in hiking your utility bills. It might require an upgrade. The system experiences corrosion and dirt buildup over time, resulting in frequent wear and tear. At this point, the system loses its efficiency and requires more energy.
According to experts, an HVAC system loses 5% to 10% efficiency as it ages. However, your system could be losing its efficiency due to malfunctioning that needs repair. If the technician says the unit requires extensive repair, weigh the difference between the repair costs, components needing replacement, and installing a new system. Remember, performing an extensive repair doesn’t guarantee the absence of future issues.
- The System Produces Strange Noises
It’s normal for an HVAC system to make some sounds. However, there are some noises you shouldn’t ignore. Call a professional HVAC technician immediately when you hear scraping, grinding, loud bangs and pops, and squealing. Such noises could result from a malfunctioning blower, compressor, or condenser coil. These noises also indicate a worn-out system with multiple failing components that require upgrading.
- The System No Longer Cool Or Heat Your Home
Most homeowners turn to their heating and cooling systems for cool air during summer, when the temperatures are high and heat during winter. The system’s primary purpose is to cool your home when it’s hot and heat it when it’s cold. If your unit fails to produce the required air, it has a problem worth your attention.
A heating and cooling system that fails to cool or heat your home adequately likely has issues with the compressor. Alternatively, the refrigerant levels could be too high or low. Suppose the problem is the refrigerant. Replacing it could be more expensive than investing in a new system, primarily if your unit used the R-22 coolant.
- The Circuit Breaker Trips Frequently
An HVAC circuit breaker can occasionally trip following an overload of malfunction. If the system is clogged with dirt and debris, the system experiences decreased efficiency. If you don’t correct the issue promptly, the system overworks to regulate temperatures in your home, causing the wires to overheat and break. In such a case, the unit may require extensive, costly repairs, and the technician might suggest installing a new system.
- You Want To Be In Control
New, advanced heating and cooling systems enable homeowners to control temperatures in their homes. Ductless units enable homeowners to erect heating and cooling pumps in different areas. With such a system, you only turn on the pumps you need at a time. This feature isn’t only convenient but also energy saving.
Conclusion
Heating and cooling systems are among the most expensive appliances in a home. Their cost reflects the services they offer. However, there comes a time when they malfunction, and typical repairs may not be an option for one reason or the other. For example, if you continue to repair the system, the amount could add up quickly to that of a new system. Suppose you experience some of the above-discussed HVAC systems. Consider replacing it with a new one.
