Expensive Repairs
A sure sign that it’s time to consider purchasing a new HVAC system is when you keep having to get your current product repaired, and pay out the nose for the privilege, too. Once you get to the point where the costs of repairs aren’t covered under warranty and at the same time add up to around half the expense of a new machine or more, you’re better off buying a brand new heating and cooling unit.
Whether you opt for a split-system wall unit or a large electric baseboard heater, over a few years, it will be more financially viable to invest in a new product rather than keep paying for expensive repairs. Some small maintenance and repair work done here and there for a low cost is expected, but once you start having to pay out for the expensive parts of a system and significant labor time from an electrician, you have to consider starting over.
Energy Bills Keep Getting Higher
Another indication that you could need a more modern HVAC system is if you find that your energy bills keep getting higher, significantly so, even though your general household power consumption doesn’t change much. Seasonal variations are, of course, a standard thing, but a sudden spike in your energy bill, in comparison to the year before, is a sign you should investigate.
Spiking power consumption indicates that the efficiency of your HVAC unit is in decline. This comes about as systems age and especially happens if they haven’t been serviced regularly over the years.
The Unit is Old Now
Once a heating and cooling system ages significantly, you’ll like start having more and more issues with it and will need to replace it. There’s no set cut-off age a machine hits where it’s time to swap it out, because it depends on things like the brand and quality of the device, how well it has been maintained, and how often it has been used. However, as a guideline, units that reach ten years of age are worth examining carefully and, once they hit 15 years, it’s usually best to buy something new.
Strange Smells
If you suddenly start to smell strange odors coming from your machine, this could be cause for concern and should be investigated immediately. A funny smell can come off HVAC systems on occasion if dust within them burns off, but this is usually rare. If you continue to smell things, it could be indicative of major problems like melting wires or ducts full of mold. If the odor remains, switch off your machine and have an electrician repair it ASAP.
Weird Noises
Similarly, pay attention to any weird noises emitted by your heating and cooling unit. You’ll notice that new and well-maintained HVAC systems are nice and quiet. Over time, though, as components wear and things degrade, noises can arise. If you hear anything that sounds particularly concerning, such as sudden loud noises, continuous squealing or grinding, etc., again turn off the unit and have it inspected.
Bad Air Quality in Your Home
Have you or your family members been suffering from increased asthma attacks, or allergies or other respiratory issues in recent times? Or have you generally observed more dust around your home than normal? If so, the problem could stem from your HVAC unit.
These systems do more than heat and cool our properties; they’re also designed to improve air quality through removing dust, dirt, and other debris. They provide better ventilation and keep humidity under control, too.
As a result, if you find you now have poorer indoor air quality, you may need to buy a new heating and cooling system. Be on the lookout for a rise in humidity, dust, mildew, and mold. These are all signs of a potentially damaged or declining HVAC device that can no longer do its job effectively.
Although it costs thousands of dollars to purchase an HVAC system, and you may have other things you’d prefer to spend that money on, if you notice any of the signs listed above, consider browsing for a new unit sooner rather than later. After all, you don’t want to be left in the lurch if your current product suddenly stops working for good.
About Author: Tiffani is a leader in marketing authority, she prides herself in her ability to create and provide high quality content that audiences find valuable. She also enjoys connecting with other bloggers and collaborating for exclusive content in various niches. With many years of experience, Tiffani has found herself more passionate than ever to continue developing content and relationship across multiple platforms and audiences.
