HVAC Replacement: When Should I Replace My HVAC Unit?

Your HVAC system is responsible for keeping you comfortable throughout the year. In the winter, the system will keep you warm, and in the summer, your HVAC system will keep you cool. It also ventilates the air in your home to circulate fresh air and help remove dust and allergens.

But what happens when an HVAC system is no longer performing as efficiently as it should?

To put it simply, you and your family will no longer stay comfortable inside your home, and your utility bills may be noticeably higher. Sometimes, efficiency issues may be solved with repairs. Other times it’s necessary to schedule an HVAC replacement.

But how do you know if your HVAC system needs replacement or whether a repair will solve the issue? Continue reading below to learn some big signs it’s time to replace your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system versus repairing it.

Your HVAC System Is More Than 10 Years Old

The average lifespan of an HVAC unit ranges between 10 and 20 years, depending on several factors. If your system is older than ten years, it may seem like it’s working. In reality, it has probably become much less efficient and may be costing you a lot of extra money.

Many of the newer HVAC units, such as those sold by Carrier, are much more efficient. Some units have such a high efficiency rating they can end up paying for themselves over time.

As systems become older, they start to wear down. The more an HVAC system runs, the faster it ages. After a certain point, replacement becomes the more cost-effective option because you’ll save considerably on repairs, maintenance, and energy bills.

Your Energy Bills Are Higher Than Normal

A small increase in your energy bills is standard when you need more heat or cooling than usual. Freezing winters and boiling summers are a common cause to see a temporary increase in energy bills.

But what if those energy bills continue to rise, despite no apparent changes to how you run your unit?

The rise in costs may be slow and steady, but it can cost you a fortune over time. If this sounds like your situation, it’s probably time for an HVAC replacement.

A Repair Will Cost Half or More of What Replacement Would Cost

If your air conditioning and heating system has broken, your repair cost will let you know whether it’s worthwhile to have a new one installed. If the repair costs half or more what a new unit would, experts recommend moving forward with a replacement.

The idea is that more extensive repairs usually signal a unit that’s on its way out. Paying half or more the cost of a HVAC replacement isn’t an efficient use of time, money, or energy.

You Can’t Keep Your Home at a Comfortable Temperature

One of the most noticeable signs it’s time for an HVAC replacement is finding it challenging to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. This includes finding it difficult to cool your home in summer and heat your home in winter. It may not be able to remove the humidity as efficiently as it did before, and that can make your indoor environment less comfortable.

When an HVAC system either gets old or falls into a state of disrepair, it no longer works as efficiently as it once did. When a unit doesn’t work efficiently, it cannot do the job it was designed to. When your home can no longer be kept at an appropriate temperature, homeowners should start looking into replacing their HVAC units.

Odd Sounds or Loud Noises Are Coming From the HVAC System

You may be familiar with the sounds of your HVAC system starting up and shutting off. While these noises are normal, many others are not.

Loud clangs and bangs, or even whistling can be signs there is a significant issue. If these issues are caught early enough, it is sometimes reasonable to repair your HVAC unit. More often than not, however, these odd noises are signs of more significant issues that require replacing the entire central air conditioning and heating system.

You Notice an Increase in Dust Around Your Home

Besides heating or cooling your home, an HVAC system is also meant to circulate air. By doing this, your HVAC system filters much of the dust and allergens from the air.

If you notice more dust around your home, this is a sign your HVAC unit is no longer ventilating and filtering the air around your home correctly. The first step is to check the air filters to see if they need to be replaced or cleaned. If this doesn’t solve the problem, however, your unit might no longer be able to perform as it should.

If You Still Aren’t Sure Whether You Need to Replace Your HVAC System

If you’re still on the fence about whether you need to replace your HVAC system, the best thing to do is ask a professional. An licensed HVAC technician can inspect your unit to see what the problem is. Depending on what they find, the expert can tell you whether they suggest repairing or replacing your unit. A second opinion is another tactic you can take if you’re not sure if replacement is needed.

During their inspection, an HVAC technician may find issues you wouldn’t otherwise be aware of. Whether they suggest repairs or replacement, the expert you hired should also be able to help you moving forward.

It’s important to note that if you need HVAC replacement, it isn’t a do-it-yourself job. Working with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units is both complex and potentially dangerous. You should always have a professional handle replacement or necessary repairs.

Do You Have More Questions About HVAC Replacement?

There are several reasons you may want to replace your HVAC system. The most common reasons are listed above. If you still aren’t sure, you can consult with a professional HVAC technician.

Do you have more questions about HVAC replacement? Or would you like to schedule an inspection of your HVAC system?

Contact Terry’s A/C & Heating today if you think you might need AC service or an HVAC replacement. Our family-owned company strives to treat each of our customers like family. See what makes our company different from others in the Houston, Texas area.

One of our associates would be more than happy to answer any questions you might still have. They can also set you up for an appointment if you need one.

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