Signs It’s Time for an HVAC Replacement
As the temperatures climb into the 90's, we're expecting those peak summer highs. As a result, air conditioning units work harder, and if it is near to its final days, it is probably a good time to replace it. Replacing an air conditioner in anticipation of breaking allows you to decide what type of unit you want, if the ductwork needs to be replaced, and probing into sales and rebates provided by various companies.
Additionally, the money saved in monthly running costs can assist in paying for the replacement. Here are the significant factors to consider as you evaluate your unit to decide if it's the right time to replace it:
The electric bill
If the homeowner's electric bill continues to rise without adding any other appliances or fixtures to the home, it's most likely an aging HVAC. An ineffective HVAC needs more energy to run, and HVACs cost the user more than any other appliance. If the unit is replaced, it can bring down the energy bill by 25-30% or possibly, even more, depending on the unit. That much savings can counterbalance the price of replacement significantly.
Age of the unit
Most units last about ten to fifteen years. Sometimes discovering the unit's age is as easy as checking the owner's manual, which should be included with the house. The house should also have had a recent inspection that might elucidate those details as well. When the unit is almost ten years old, it's the right time to look into a new one.
Frequent repairs
Anyone that has frequent HVAC repairs has a problem. While it's a good idea to have the name and number of a professional on hand for a Spring and Fall tune-up, it's not usual to need them frequently beyond that. It's probably time to ask the professional their suggestions as far as new units go, especially if the old one won't stop breaking down. The money saved on repairs can also counterbalance the price of a new unit.
Cooling problems
A different indication that the unit might be reaching its end is if the home's temperature never seems to drop even when it is running continuously. Although a decent ceiling fan can help, a functional HVAC unit won't unevenly cool a house, or not at all.
Noisy
Finally, thumping, whirring, or other strange noises emitted from the unit are a worry that the unit is near its end. A newer unit will be quieter, more efficient, and may even seem silent.
Recently a customer said, "The old unit looked like a rusty old scow and sounded like a jet taking off whenever it was on, which was all the time in the summer. After I got the new unit, I saw my electric bill drop by half, the unit is quiet, and it's always cool now," about her new HVAC.
If you are concerned about your HVAC unit having one of the issues listed above or a subject that wasn't covered, it is time to seek a professional regarding new-unit options. There are times that HVACs have a lot of life left in them and simply need an adjustment or repair. However, without talking to a professional, there isn't a way to be sure. If you need to confer with an expert, call us! We'd be more than happy to help.
Stud Air Conditioning is a full-service installation, maintenance, and repair HVAC company serving Broward, Miami-Dade, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie counties. Call us when you need help with your heating or cooling needs at (954)324-2905. We can help!
