Is It Time to Replace My HVAC?
Being one of the most essential investments for any American home, HVAC systems need to be constantly maintained to last longer and reduce costly repairs. Unfortunately, even well-managed HVAC systems need to be replaced at some point in time. The systems get old with constant failures and expensive repairs.
But how do you know when to replace your HVAC? Here are the 5 top signs that signify it’s time to buy a new HVAC system.
Replace 10 Year Old Air Conditioners
Image via Flickr by ActiveSteve
In an ideal environment, an HVAC unit should last for about 10 to 15 years. However, due to constant wear and tear, contractors may advise you to buy one earlier. At times the AC may last longer depending on the level of maintenance. Although there are more factors that determine whether an AC should be replaced, many are related to age.
If your HVAC system is prone to failure, you should consider its age before spending more money on repairs. Old air conditioners breakdown often and are more expensive to repair. Repairing the problems will only delay replacement temporarily.
Expensive Repair Services
Faulty HVAC systems are unreliable. They consume more energy, don’t perform as expected, and will not provide heat or cold when you need it the most. When you start getting a spike in your energy costs, inconsistency in room temperatures, or can’t find spare parts for your AC, then it’s time to find a new system.
It’s common for HVAC systems to fail. However, you’ll start to notice the systems break down more often than expected. The costs of repair will start exceeding the buying price of a new HVAC system. In this case, you should upgrade your system into a better, newer version.
Freon Refrigerant
In 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency banned the use of the R-22 refrigerant, Freon. The refrigerant was discovered to be harmful to the environment and companies stopped producing it in the market. Most current systems do not use Freon anymore. It’s difficult to find and expensive to buy.
Maintenance services for freon-operated HVAC systems are also expensive. For an old HVAC system, you may start getting constant refrigerant leaks. The leaks can lead to costly repairs that exceed half the price of a new HVAC system. If you are finding it difficult to buy the prescribed refrigerant in the market, then it’s time to replace your HVAC system.
Rising Costs
Are you experiencing increased energy bills each month? When electronics start deteriorating, they normally consume a lot of power to perform simple tasks. Whether you clean your ducts, change the air filters, insulate your ceilings, or any other trick, nothing seems to work. These lead to steadily increasing costs of maintenance with no resolution.
Basically, old air conditioning units have problems beyond repair. Your annual repair budget can exceed the cost of buying a new HVAC. Don’t risk increasing your bills or endangering your health in the winter or summer. Simply contact your HVAC contractor and ask for advice. If there is no permanent solution to make your HVAC last longer, then it’s best to buy a new HVAC system.
