All electrical appliances have a limited lifetime. According to the Department of Energy, the average lifespan for an HVAC system in the United States is between 10 to 20 years if they undergo regular maintenance. In states with high humidity levels, the lifespan can be much lower, around 10 to 12 years. However, you should consider replacing your old HVAC unit with a new one after a certain period.
When to Replace Your HVAC System?
Different issues may occur, forcing you to replace your air conditioning installation. The general rule is that if your HVAC unit is more than ten years old, you should consider the replacement option. The decision to replace the HVAC system may depend on several factors, including the following:
The Age of the Unit
The average lifespan of an HVAC system is approximately 10-20 years. Once your air conditioner crosses that threshold, you should consider investing in a new system for your home if you need to keep on repairing the current one.
At some point, an old HVAC unit will start running into serious problems. These can include icing on the equipment itself, low refrigerant levels, wear and tear, uncooled air, and repeated short cycling.
These issues get worse over time, reducing your system’s energy efficiency, raising your power consumption, and even harming your air quality in the long run. Once you notice signs that your HVAC system is breaking, don’t wait. Reach out to experts in Mt Carmel, IL heating and air conditioning services, or those in your area for help with removing an old system and installing a new one.
Poor Air Quality
You could determine the effectiveness of your HVAC unit by checking the indoor air quality. All air conditioners have a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, and since January 2015, air conditioners must have an efficiency rating of at least 14 SEER. But by January 2023, the minimum efficiency rating will increase to 15 SEER.
Your HVAC system needs to be replaced if you observe the following signs:
- Mold growth
- Cold and hot spots around your home
- Humidity
- An increase in health issues, such as allergies, respiratory problems, dizziness, and skin dryness or irritation
So, if you notice any of these signs and realize your HVAC may be behind the bad air quality in your home, you should contact a professional to perform the necessary heating and cooling repair.
Popping Sounds
An HVAC unit must run silently. So if you hear any unusual sounds coming out of your HVAC unit, it may be due to some internal problems or loose machinery. You may need to have your HVAC system checked or replaced.
Spike in Utility Bills
If you suddenly notice higher utility bills, you should get your HVAC system checked because it could be using more energy than needed.
To know why your HVAC unit causes high electricity bills, it’s best to seek professional help. They have the equipment and know-how needed to find problems with your system and recommend replacements as soon as possible.
Frequent Repairs
The internal parts of your HVAC unit will wear out over time and may end up needing constant repairs. So investing in a new system may be the wisest decision for your budget and your family’s comfort.
Although buying a new HVAC system is a significant investment, the amount you save from costly maintenance and repair and the peace of mind you get makes it worthwhile.
Pungent Odors
If you ever smell pungent odors coming out of the HVAC unit, you should call a professional immediately. The odors might indicate the growth of mold, bacteria, or other fungi in your unit. This usually occurs due to clogged filters or coils.
Additionally, if your air conditioner is still running on Freon, you should know that Freon was officially phased out on January 1, 2020, and is banned in the U.S. today.
If you have an old air conditioner, you should consider replacing it or charging it with an eco-friendly refrigerant like R410A or Puron.
Final Words
Some HVAC systems last for a long time, while others don’t. Homeowners have found that replacing the old air conditioning system can pay for itself over time, thanks to the combination of energy savings, warranties, and rebates.
Your HVAC professional will give you two options no matter what diagnosis your HVAC system receives. You either choose to repair the current system or replace it with a new one. But if your HVAC unit is over ten years old and the estimated repairs costs are close to 50% of its value, replacing it would make more sense.
