Over time, hot summers and cold winters can put a strain on your HVAC system. Your heating and cooling equipment should last you at least 10 years, with regular maintenance. But even the best HVAC systems eventually wear out. So, if your HVAC system is more than a decade old, it’s likely time for a new installation. A high-efficiency HVAC unit will save you money on energy costs and has many other benefits as well.
If you’re not sure if it’s time for a new HVAC installation, consider the following signs that may indicate that it’s time to replace your current system.
Inefficient Heating and Cooling of Your Home
If your heating and cooling system is no longer efficient at keeping your home at the temperature you desire, or if your home is always either too hot or too cold, then it may be time for a new HVAC installation.
Most homeowners realize something is wrong during the winter months when the heater can’t keep up with the demand of heating your home, as noted on https://www.callthegeneral.com/. For example, your home feels colder than usual, despite turning up the thermostat and waiting for it to warm up. The same thing applies during the summer months as well. If you find yourself running your air conditioning at full capacity but your home still does not feel cool, it may be time for a new installation.
Constant Maintenance of the System
If your HVAC system is constantly breaking down or needs repairs more often than usual, or if you find yourself calling for service appointments regularly, it’s likely time to invest in a new system. Not only will this save you money in service calls, but it will also help you save money in the long run. A new air conditioning system can be a substantial upfront cost, but it’s worth it to avoid costly repairs in the future.
A new system will also be much more energy-efficient and save you money on your monthly utility bills. Additionally, advancements in technology mean that many modern HVAC systems are compatible with smart home technology. This will allow you to control your system from anywhere in the world and make adjustments based on your schedule or current weather conditions.
Burning Smells When You Turn on Your AC or Heat
If you smell something burning when the heater is turned on, there are a couple of things that could be causing it. One is that dust build-up is blocking the fan from moving properly. The other is that a belt might be slipping, which means it’s time for an HVAC inspection. However, if the burning smell never seems to go away, your HVAC system may be too old and need to be replaced.
Any burning smell coming out of your AC unit could be dangerous and should be inspected by a professional as soon as possible. The risks of using an AC unit with a burning smell include fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, and system failure. So, don’t ignore the smell, as it could end up costing you more in the long run.
High Electricity Bills Every Month
If you’re paying a large amount of money in energy bills every month, there’s probably an issue with your HVAC system. It could also simply be too old to be efficient enough for your home’s modern heating and cooling needs. It may be time to consider replacing it or at least having a professional look into the problem to see how much it will cost to fix.
If the technician can’t find any problems with your unit, but it’s still not performing as it should, they may recommend a new installation. It could be costing you more, in the long run, to try and keep an outdated system running than to simply invest in a newer model. A full replacement will give you peace of mind and make your home more comfortable while saving you money in the long run.
Go for a High-Efficiency HVAC System
Opt for a high-efficiency HVAC system when upgrading. It can save you up to 30% on energy costs each year and work more efficiently than traditional units. Be sure to look for one with at least an AFUE rating of 95%. Additionally, look into a system that has been approved by the EPA’s ENERGY STAR program and features an HSPF rating of at least nine.