Even though it’s not something most homeowners want to think about, everything in your home has an expiration date. Some things expire sooner than others, but even your home appliances and systems break down past the point of repair.
Your HVAC system is one of them, and replacing it is not an easy choice to make—it’s even harder to know when it’s the right time. When Is It Time for an HVAC System Replacement? Our job as your trusted HVAC experts is to guide you in making the right choice for your home and your system as well as give you some of the signs our team looks out for in your system and what they could mean.
System Age and Lifespan
One of the first questions we ask is about the age of your air conditioning system. A well-maintained system’s lifespan is typically 12-20 years. We take this into account when recommending major repairs because sometimes repairs can only be a bandaid on a larger issue that comes with the system’s age. A complete system replacement can make more sense if the system is reaching the end of its lifespan.
However, our techs will take into account other factors when making the recommendation.
Energy Bills
Take note of your energy and utility bills. It is common for energy bills to increase as a system ages due to them becoming less efficient. This is due to the system having a longer run time and struggling to cool your home at the same efficiency as a new system.
The components most likely to cause energy bills to rise are the HVAC motor, compressor, and coils. Motor performance is a key indicator, as the motor can often work overtime to work as before and cause a major spike in energy consumption.
Frequent HVAC Repairs
Wear and tear is normal and a service call every once in a while in addition to routine maintenance calls is not uncommon, but it becomes a concern when our HVAC team is out multiple times a year for repairs, unusual sounds, inconsistent temperatures, etc.
Not only do these service calls add up, but they can only extend your system’s lifespan so much. This is when it’s time to ask yourself “Do I continue to repair or do I replace my HVAC system?”
Inconsistent Temperatures
If rooms in your home have drastically different temperatures, it may be a sign that your system’s equipment is improperly running and having difficulty distributing air throughout your house.
It’s important to address inconsistent temperatures promptly, as they can be a sign of aging components, failing ductwork, or an undersized system. While minor adjustments or repairs might temporarily solve the issue, persistent temperature imbalances often indicate the need for a complete system replacement. A new HVAC system can ensure consistent comfort throughout your home, no matter the season.
When to Call the Professionals
Deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC system can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to make the decision alone. Our team at Scotty’s Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. helps you assess your system, provide expert recommendations, and help you determine the best solution for your home and budget.
If you’re noticing rising energy bills, frequent repairs, inconsistent temperatures, or if your system is over 15 years old, it may be time to explore a replacement.
Call us today to schedule an evaluation and find out how a new HVAC system can save you money, increase your comfort, and provide peace of mind!