If your HVAC system is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to consider replacing it. This is especially true if it still uses R-22 refrigerant, which is being phased out due to environmental concerns.
A licensed technician will perform a Manual J load calculation to ensure your new system is properly sized for your property. This will help you save money year-round while keeping your home comfortable. Contact TAP Heating and Cooling for more information.
High Energy Bills
For many homeowners, the HVAC system is a long-term investment that must fulfill two critical duties — keeping families comfortable and energy bills low. If the repairs to an old or inefficient system are costing more than you expected, consider replacing it with a newer model that offers energy savings and peace of mind.
An HVAC system that is more than 15 years old could be using up to 20% more energy to perform the same heating or cooling as a newer model. Replacing it with a more efficient unit can help you reduce your monthly utility costs and cut your carbon footprint.
Newer HVAC systems are designed to meet (and often exceed) today’s energy efficiency standards and use less power to provide the same comfort. In addition, you may be able to qualify for tax incentives and rebates to offset the cost of your new equipment.
If you’re shopping for a new AC, look for units with a high HSPF or SEER rating to maximize your energy savings. While these upgrades may be more expensive than an older unit with a lower rating, they’ll pay for themselves in reduced energy expenses over time.
A professional contractor will take the time to carefully measure your home and select an appropriate sized unit for your space. On installation day, the technician will remove the old air conditioner and furnace, disconnect the refrigerant, and prepare for the new system. They’ll test the operation of your new HVAC system and make any necessary adjustments to optimize performance. You should expect some temporary disruptions as the crew works to get your new unit up and running. They may need to gain access to ductwork, replace rotten wall studs or ceiling tiles, and make electrical upgrades to accommodate your new equipment. Your HVAC technician will explain any unexpected repair costs before they begin and provide a written estimate of the final cost. They should also review proper operating procedures and warranty information with you before leaving your home.
Frequent Repairs
Even with regular maintenance, many older systems start to wear down and experience a decline in performance. If you find yourself calling for repair service frequently, it may be time to replace your system. A good rule of thumb is if repair expenses have exceeded half the price of a new unit, it’s probably better to invest in a replacement. Constant repairs not only drain your wallet, but they can also cause uncomfortable temperatures in your home. Newer systems are more efficient and tend to break down less often.
If your system is over 15 years old, it is likely time for an upgrade. Besides being inefficient, older systems use harmful chemicals such as Freon (or R-22) to cool your home. Newer systems are more environmentally friendly and do not contain these hazardous chemicals.
Other warning signs of a failing HVAC system include unusual noises and odd smells. Strange sounds may suggest mechanical issues like grating, whistling, or banging are causing damage to your system. An odor that is unfamiliar or musty can be a sign of mold or mildew within your ventilation ductwork. Leaving these issues unchecked could negatively affect your indoor air quality and increase your allergy or asthma symptoms.
A newer HVAC system will distribute your air more evenly, making rooms in your house feel more comfortable. If you are noticing uneven temperatures between rooms, it is possible that your air conditioning is sized incorrectly or is simply worn out.
An HVAC professional can test your current system to see if it is performing optimally. An underperforming or aging system is not as effective at controlling indoor humidity levels as it should be, which can lead to high energy bills.
Having your system tested can help you determine the best course of action. If you do decide to purchase a new system, the spring and fall are the best times of year for installation. This will avoid peak seasons when the prices are highest. Ask your local HVAC company if they offer GoodLeap financing to make it easier on your wallet.
Uncomfortable Temperatures
It can be tough to know when it is time to replace an HVAC system. However, just like any large household appliance or piece of equipment, eventually you will run into a point where the ongoing repairs are just costing too much and the new system will save you money over time. The key is to recognize this point before your old system breaks down completely.
If you find yourself drenched in sweat at the peak of summer or shivering in your bed at night during winter, then it is likely time to upgrade to a more energy efficient and reliable HVAC system. Not only will this save you money over time, but it will also increase the comfort of your home and improve indoor air quality.
An inefficient system will require more power to cool your home, which means higher energy bills. If you have a HVAC technician diagnose an inefficiency problem, then it is best to invest in a new HVAC system that will save you money over time.
A duct leak is another sign that it’s time to replace your HVAC system. Having a professional inspect your ductwork is crucial because a leak can result in a variety of issues including an uncomfortable home environment, higher energy bills and reduced efficiency.
Another reason to consider a new HVAC system is if you have a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is a chemical agent that is used in HVAC systems to cool the home, but it has been banned in most countries due to the fact that it harms the environment. Newer systems no longer use this type of cooling agent, so upgrading to a newer system will help the environment and your wallet.
Inconsistent temperatures are also a sign that your HVAC system is nearing the end of its life. If you have a problem with your AC system, then it will probably take a while for your house to reach the desired temperature. In addition, you might hear strange noises such as bangs and thuds, grinding, grating or whistling. These are signs that your HVAC system is struggling to function properly, which could be caused by a variety of factors such as an outdated meter, low refrigerant levels or poor duct work.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality is a serious problem worldwide, and it affects people of all ages. Long-term exposure to indoor pollutants can lead to respiratory diseases, heart disease and cognitive deficits. The pollutants that contaminate indoor air can be of natural or manmade origin. Some, such as carbon monoxide, are released by combustion sources like wood and coal heating and cooking appliances and gas stoves. Other pollution is produced by household products such as cleaning supplies, paints and insecticides. Finally, some of the toxins are from natural sources like radon and mold.
The most common cause of poor indoor air quality is ventilation problems, which can result from many different factors. For example, ventilation systems that are not properly designed for a building can restrict fresh air and increase energy bills. The lack of ventilation may also contribute to high humidity levels, which can encourage the growth of bacteria and fungus.
Ventilation problems can also be caused by poorly maintained HVAC systems, such as dirty air filters and humidifiers. Humidifiers that are not regularly cleaned can produce fungi, which can then be distributed throughout the home. Improper maintenance can also cause air filters to become clogged, which reduces the amount of fresh air that is circulated.
Indoor air quality can also be affected by specific contaminants, such as dust mites, pet dander and cigarette smoke. These microscopic particles can trigger allergies and asthma, as well as worsen existing health conditions like sinus congestion and headaches. Some of these particles can even aggravate symptoms of some illnesses, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
A newer, more efficient HVAC system can improve indoor air quality by reducing the concentration of pollutants. It can also reduce energy consumption, which can lower monthly utility bills. If your home is experiencing any of the warning signs above, you may want to consider replacing your old furnace and AC unit with a new, more energy-efficient model. This will reduce yearly out-of-pocket maintenance and repair costs, and it can help lower your monthly energy bills.