While a thick blanket or a running fan can do wonders on some days, proper heating and cooling are a must when temperatures reach extremes.
But HVAC systems can malfunction or break, especially with heavy use. The answer to when to replace HVAC units lies in a few telling signs.
Of course, it’s important to first check what’s causing the issue you’re experiencing to avoid the high cost of replacing an entire system. But when it’s unavoidable and if one of the major parts of the system is broken, calling a technician is the best choice.
Our team at Smart Air is ready to help with whatever you need, whether it’s to show you when the best time to replace HVAC units is or whether you need your unit switched out for another.
Regardless, here are some signs you may need to get a new HVAC system.
- Your home has reduced airflow
When it comes to when to replace HVAC systems, one of the most telltale signs is a sudden drop in the amount of air you get.
Most of the time, this can be caused by something minor, like a dirty air filter. But if you regularly replace your system’s filter and the airflow you’re getting is still weak, it’s important to find the cause.
Depending on whether it’s the motor, the blower fan, or another more severe problem, replacing the unit can be the best solution here.
- Your monthly energy bills are rising
One of the best answers to the question “When should you replace your HVAC system?” is when you notice an increase in your monthly energy bills.
If you haven’t been using your unit often and your electric bill has still increased, this can be a sign that the unit is working much harder than it should be.
An overworked furnace or AC will run far less efficiently than normal. This causes the unit to draw more power, whether that’s to cool its parts down or simply due to some other problem. In many cases, this overworking can also lead to the system wearing down much faster and needing to be replaced.
- Your HVAC system is old
Of course, the best time of year to replace HVAC systems is at the end of its lifespan, depending on when it was installed.
Depending on the specific type of system, the lifespan can be anywhere from 8 to 20 years from its manufacturing date. Additionally, many heating systems are often installed within a few months of winter while cooling systems are installed before summer.
A common lifespan when it comes to when to replace HVAC systems averages out to a roughly 10-year gap. At this point, the system starts to wear down faster due to age and frequent use. While you can let it work until it fails permanently, replacing it can save you on increasingly frequent repairs and inefficient heating or cooling.
Get in touch with Smart Air
Hopefully, this article has answered when to replace HVAC systems.
Having your AC or furnace suddenly fail one day can be quite troubling. If you notice any of the signs we’ve listed, contact our team at Smart Air for help.