Signs You Might Need a New HVAC System
Your home is supposed to be a haven of comfort, and having a well-functioning HVAC unit is essential. Most homeowners rarely think about their heating and air conditioning system until it fails and their house is either too hot or too cold. Although yearly AC tune-ups are essential, these units still won’t last forever. You’ll have to replace the equipment at some point, and here’s how you’ll know when it’s time.
1. Your HVAC Has Reached Double Digits
If you have a decade-old unit, there’s a good possibility that you’re not operating an energy-efficient system. The Department of Energy recommends that HVAC units should be replaced every 10 to 15 years. The exact period depends on how well they’re maintained and the extent of use. Some units are outdated because they run on Freon R-22, which is harmful to the environment. In this case, installing a new system lowers your energy bill and reduces your carbon footprint.
2. There Are Hot or Cold Spots
If some parts of your home feel warmer or cooler than others, there’s a good chance that your unit is defective. An HVAC system that’s functioning efficiently should heat and cool the entire house evenly. Another reason for experiencing hot and cold spots is if the unit is too small for the property. If you just bought the appliance, contact the contractor and find out if they can exchange it for an appropriate-sized system.
3. Increased Running Time
During extreme weather conditions, like in the peak of summer or winter, your HVAC unit might kick into overdrive mode to keep you comfortable. However, a system that doesn’t turn off regularly is a sign of a flawed appliance. If there’s a change in the frequency of shutting on and off, contact a technician in Nacogdoches, TX, to inspect it. There’s a chance that dirt has accumulated in the system, and the equipment may require some cleaning. It could also be that the compressor isn’t functioning optimally.
4. The Repair Man Is on Speed Dial
The first time you called your HVAC technician didn’t seem like a big deal. They came, fixed what was broken, and the malfunctioning unit started working again. However, it worked for only a few days, and within no time, you had to call them back over again. Now, it’s like you have to call the technician all the time. Although regular tune-ups are essential, you shouldn’t have to cough out hundreds of dollars on a regular basis. There comes a time where buying a new unit makes more sense than constantly fixing what you have. Everyone gets to this point at a different time, so your best bet is to check the repair bills and weigh your options.
5. The Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
A few circuit breaker trips are no cause for concern, but there might be a bigger problem if you’re constantly fixing it. Chances are that your HVAC unit is the reason for the repeated tripping of the circuit breaker. You can try doing some repairs to get the system working, but eventually, the best solution is to replace it.
6. The HVAC Unit Sounds Like a Drum Line
If you’re up to date with your maintenance schedule and your HVAC is working well, there shouldn’t be any noise. Failing to tune-up your unit might cause several noises, including:
- Rattling
- Thumping or banging
- Screeching
- Hissing
- Rumbling
- Popping
- Buzzing
None of these signs is good, as it signals a significant problem like debris or dirt clogging your system. You might also be dealing with a motor that requires lubrication or a faulty compressor. An HVAC technician can diagnose the source of the sound and find a solution. If the unit has severed its lifetime, consider upgrading to a new system to enjoy some peace and quiet.
7. Your Energy Bill Has Escalated
If your utility bill is now a string of numbers that leave you wondering what has changed, don’t blame your kids; instead, check your HVAC first. There’s no denying that almost half of your energy consumption goes toward heating or cooling your home, but you don’t have to break the bank to be comfortable indoors. Contact a trusted technician to inspect your HVAC unit and diagnose the problem. You may have to replace the system to save on energy bills.
If you live in Nacogdoches, TX, and your HVAC unit starts acting up, contact Nacogdoches Sheet Metal, Plumbing & Air Conditioning, LTD. for a comprehensive evaluation. We’ll advise you on whether you should replace or repair the unit based on what we find. We also offer cash for clunkers, so you’ll only pay up to $1,000 on the new comfort system install. At Nacogdoches Sheet Metal, Plumbing & Air Conditioning, LTD., we also provide air quality, plumbing, and sheet metal fabrication services.