Is It Time for a New HVAC System?

Have you noticed that your Wendell, NC, HVAC system isn’t performing as well as it used to? Your home may be ready for a new heating and cooling system. Discover how to identify the specific signs that reveal it’s time to replace your HVAC system.

Increased Running Time

Your HVAC system will run longer and have trouble reaching the desired temperature when it isn’t operating efficiently. It will also start up more frequently.

The first things to check are whether the blower motor or coils are working optimally. It’s possible that a technician can simply repair these parts and your AC unit will work well for a longer period of time.

If you discover that the coils and blower motor are working properly or you’ve had them recently serviced, then you might need to think about replacement of your HVAC system. There’s no point in continuing to repair or use an HVAC system that can’t cool and circulate air efficiently and is costing more in energy bills.

Odd HVAC System Sounds

All HVAC systems make some noise. It’s common to hear these sounds become a bit louder as the system ages. However, it’s possible that you need to replace your HVAC system when you hear the following noises:

• The outdoor AC unit is making banging sounds.
• The blower hums louder than it used to.
• The furnace is making banging or groaning noises.

It’s possible that your system simply needs certain parts replaced. Your HVAC technician can identify problems and replace parts such as blowers, fans, motors or other moving parts. Your technician will also let you know if your system is nearing the end of its lifespan, and a replacement will soon be needed.

Too Many Repairs

Fixing individual HVAC system parts are typically all that’s required to get a failing air conditioner back into working condition. However, there will come a time when the system wears out, and replacement is the only viable solution.

It’s sometimes more cost-effective to replace your system than swap out major parts. It all depends on the age of your heating and cooling system system. If it’s quite old, then it might not be worth the parts and labor costs to replace a motor or compressor.

The upfront cost of a new heating and cooling system might seem like a lot to handle. Consider that you’re likely to spend far more over the long haul if you continue fixing an old and unreliable system. That’s when it’s more cost-effective to install a new HVAC system.

You Haven’t Maintained the HVAC System Properly

It’s best to have your heating and cooling system tuned up at least once annually to keep all parts operating efficiently and safely. A regular tune-up catches small problems that might lead to major issues. These annual maintenance checks will keep most systems in good working order for many years.

It’s time to be honest with yourself if you know that you haven’t been vigilant with the annual tune-up appointments. Unfortunately, your HVAC system could be suffering from a variety of issues because you haven’t had an HVAC technician consistently inspecting the system. If this is the case, then strongly consider replacing the system.

Your HVAC System Is More Than a Decade Old

Your heating and cooling system may last longer than 10 years if it receive regular maintenance every year. However, your system will be inefficient, outdated and ready for a replacement if you haven’t maintained it.

If your HVAC system is older than 12 or 15 years, then even regular maintenance won’t save you from costly repairs at some point. Your energy bills will rise because the system isn’t capable of operating efficiently anymore.

A new system is always going to outperform an older version. After all, you’re dealing with state-of-the-art technology that wasn’t available 10 years ago. For example, you could benefit from smart technology such as variable speed motors, by replacing your old heating and cooling system with a new one, which will save on energy and improve your comfort.

Are you ready to install a new HVAC system? Contact us at Alford Mechanical so we can schedule your next HVAC tune-up.

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