Signs You Should Replace Your HVAC System
But is your unit actually working well? Or is it time for a replacement? Fret not! Here, we will discuss the signs you should consider for an HVAC system upgrade, the factors to take into account when looking for new heating and cooling equipment, and more.
When Do You Need to Consider an HVAC System Replacement?
When it comes to HVAC replacement, there are a lot of factors to consider. How old is your system? What kind of shape is it in? Have you had any recent repairs? If you're not sure whether or not it's time for a new air conditioning or heating unit, keep reading.
But keep in mind that these are just general guidelines – every home is different, and you should consult with a professional like an HVAC contractor Claremore, OK before making any decisions.
Your Unit is More than a Decade Old
It's not easy to switch to another HVAC system for two reasons. First, a new heating or air conditioning unit can be expensive. Second, the sentimental value that you have for your old appliance can be hard to let go. But there comes a time when every HVAC needs to be replaced, and if yours is more than a decade old, that time might be now.
Frequent Repair Bills
What would you do when any of your appliances at home like air conditioners or furnaces stop working when you need them the most? We would usually call for repair, and that’s the best thing to do.
And after getting it fixed, we heave a sigh of relief and think that everything is back to normal. What if the same thing happens again and again? You will definitely have your cooling or heating equipment checked and repaired from time to time, costing you money. Therefore, switching to a new and modern HVAC might be the best decision.
Rising Utility Costs
Whether it's summer or winter, your HVAC will run 24/7 to make sure that your home is comfortable all year round. So, it's not surprising that your utility bills will go up.
But if you've noticed a sudden and significant increase in your energy costs even if you minimize the use of your HVAC, letting go of your old unit and opting for a more energy-efficient one will be your best bet. Not only will it keep your electric consumption low, but it will also help you save some cash in the long run.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
Is your home always dusty? Do you or your family members suffer from serious allergies? There could be many reasons for this, but one of them might be your HVAC system. The filter, in particular, might be filled with impurities, such as dirt and dust, which could require an easy fix like a replacement.
But what if your filter is in good working order? The culprit could be the other major parts of your furnace or air conditioner, such as the coils.
While a repair might be all you need, it might also be time to get a new and improved HVAC unit that can provide better indoor air quality for your home when the long scorching or shivering days come.
Your Unit is Short Cycling More Frequently than Ever
It is normal for your HVAC to short cycle to some degree. However, if it's happening more frequently than before, especially if your unit is less than a decade old, then that's not good news.
Short cycling is when your furnace or air conditioner turns on and off more often than normal. It puts a lot of stress on the system and can lead to bigger problems in the future. And if you've noticed that your unit has been short-cycling lately, there's no time to waste but to give an HVAC contractor Claremore, OK a call for a consultation.
What Are the Factors to Take Into Account When Looking for New HVAC Equipment?
When your cooling and heating units are on their last legs, you will probably start to search for a replacement. How's the experience? It's quite confusing and overwhelming, isn't it?
But if you know what to search for in an HVAC system, the entire process can be a lot less stressful and more seamless.
Below are a few things you need to take into account when looking for the perfect unit for your home all year round:
Types of HVAC Systems
There are four types of HVAC equipment that you can choose from. The first one is a central air conditioner, which is the most common in households. It comes with an evaporator coil that cools down your home by removing the heat inside. The heat pump is second on the list, which can either work as an air conditioner or a heater, depending on the season.
The third option is a furnace, which uses either oil or gas to provide heat to your living space. Lastly, there's a ductless mini-split that doesn't require any ductwork. It is compact and easy to install.
Now, which is the right fit for your specific comfort needs and requirements? To be sure, you can ask for help from an HVAC contractor Claremore, OK.
Size of the Unit
Once you have chosen the right type of system, the next step is to know the perfect size that will efficiently heat or cool your home. A qualified and certified technician can help you with this as well.
For instance, a unit that's too small will have a hard time maintaining the desired temperature in your space, especially during extreme weather conditions. It will also work double time, which can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan.
On the other hand, an HVAC unit that's too big will also have its own issues. It will cool or heat your space too quickly, resulting in inconsistencies. Plus, there will be more energy waste because the system will frequently turn on and off.
Advanced Features
After you have considered the type and size of the unit, it's time to take a look at some of the features that you might want to have. These days, HVAC systems come with different bells and whistles designed to make your life more comfortable.
For instance, you can get a furnace or air conditioner with a programmable thermostat that you can control even when you're away from home.
You can also find one with a filter that can remove different types of allergens, pet dander, and other airborne particles. But you just have to prepare your pocket because these features come with a higher price tag.
Energy Efficiency Rating
When the weather is cold, you will probably use your furnace more often. The same goes for your air conditioner when the temperature outside becomes unbearable. This leads to sky-high utility bills, which is why having an energy-efficient HVAC is a must.
But how to know if a particular model is energy-efficient? Just check the energy efficiency rating of every unit on your list. This will give you an idea of how much energy the unit will consume and how much money you will shell out each month.
How to Make Your HVAC System Last Longer
It's hard to let go of your current cooling or heating system because of the cost. But when it no longer meets your needs and it already has a lot of issues, you don't have a choice but to switch to a new one.
And once your air conditioner or furnace is installed, you're probably wondering how you can make it last for a long time. Here are some tips:
Clean the unit regularly to remove dirt and dust.
As your HVAC system runs, it will gradually accumulate dirt and dust. This requires regular cleaning to prevent it from working too hard and breaking down sooner than expected.
Change the filter every three months or as needed.
Before air enters your home, it first passes through the filter, causing it to get clogged with impurities. To prevent this from happening, change the filter every three months or as soon as it gets dirty.
Keep the area around your outdoor unit free from debris.
Your outdoor unit needs to have enough space around it to function properly. So, you have to make sure to trim the bushes and remove any debris that might block the airflow.
Check and clean the coils every year.
Like the filter, the coils also need to be cleaned regularly to prevent them from getting clogged. And a task such as this cannot be a DIY job because it requires special tools and equipment. A qualified HVAC contractor Claremore, OK has you covered.
Leave All of Your HVAC Needs to the Expert Technicians at Cartwright Heating & Air Conditioning Today!
Are you still unsure about whether you should replace your HVAC system or not? Let the team of licensed and certified HVAC contractor Claremore, OK at Cartwright Heating & Air Conditioning do what they do best - inspect the nook and cranny of your unit and give you an honest assessment.
In case you experience a hard time choosing the right unit for your home comfort requirements, we will help you every step of the way.
Drop us a call at 918-299-5161 today to book an appointment!