When Should You Purchase a New HVAC System?
HVAC systems are designed to serve you for a long time. For your system to last longer, however, you need to maintain it regularly. Unfortunately, your HVAC system won’t last a lifetime despite your efforts. As a result, you may need to replace it. As a homeowner, one of the dilemmas you may face is when to replace your current AC unit. This article highlights when to consider buying a new HVAC system.
1. Strange Sounds
An air conditioning unit may produce a clicking sound at the beginning and end of a cooling cycle. It also produces soft and undetectable noises when running. However, if the noise becomes too loud, there could be a problem.
Several factors can make your HVAC system start producing strange sounds, including:
- Electrical issues
- Broken components
- Refrigerant leaks
- Condensate drain blockage
- Faulty fan motor bearings
Once you hear strange noises coming from your HVAC unit, turn it off immediately. After that, ask a technician to come and identify the exact issue and rectify it. If the noise refuses to go away, you may need to buy a new system.
2. High Energy Bills
Your heating and cooling costs account for 50% of your home’s energy bills. If your system becomes less energy efficient, your monthly energy bills will significantly rise, inconveniencing you.
One of the main factors that can make your HVAC system start consuming a lot of energy is a low Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. Typically, air conditioning units lose their SEER rating as they become old. Another major issue is a leak in the ductwork. Additionally, a faulty thermostat can make the system consume a lot of electricity.
If you notice a sudden spike in your monthly energy bills, consider replacing the unit and saving some money. Besides saving money, a new energy-efficient system will contribute to environmental conservation.
3. High Humidity and a Less Efficient Unit
Your HVAC unit performs many tasks, including dehumidifying the indoor air. The dehumidifying process is quite simple. When you turn on your system, it draws in air and passes over the evaporator coils. The coils then remove excess moisture. This moisture normally condenses, collects in the drip pan below the evaporator coils, and then runs out through the drain.
Nevertheless, when your system becomes old, its components, including the evaporator coils, may become inefficient, preventing them from extracting humidity from the air. As a result, you may see fog on your windows or condensation around your vents and ducting. In worse situations, mold may grow in your home, causing extensive damage.
4. Foul Smells
The air coming out of your AC’s vents should smell clean. At some point, however, your HVAC unit may start producing a foul smell. Different smells indicate different issues. A musty smell normally signifies excessive mold growth in the unit, while a strong burning smell shows that there could be an electrical wiring issue.
Smelly indoor air can be quite uncomfortable. Moreover, it may cause respiratory issues for you and your family members. There may be a simple fix to this issue. If not, you may need to replace your HVAC system.
5. Frequent Repairs
As your air conditioning unit becomes old, it may develop reoccurring issues. Repairing your unit may seem like the best option in the short run since it’s quite cheap compared to buying a new one.
However, repairs may eventually become costly if your unit regularly develops issues. To avoid spending a lot of money and the hassle of calling an HVAC technician all the time, consider replacing the unit. According to the rule of thumb, you should replace your HVAC system if the repair cost exceeds 30% of the cost of a new air conditioner.
6. When You Want to Update Your System
If you have an old HVAC system, you may not be able to pair it with your smartphone or any other device. This means you can’t control the temperature remotely. By choosing to install a new system, you can add upgrades, such as a smart thermostat. Talk to your technician about energy-efficient upgrades as well.
Get a New HVAC System
An HVAC system is essential since it makes your home comfortable. Nevertheless, the system may develop issues that can be quite frustrating. To avoid such issues, tune-up your system regularly. At JAMCO Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer maintenance services to ensure your system runs like new. If your unit develops an issue, our team will identify and repair it. For systems with serious issues, we advise homeowners in Deptford Township, NJ to buy new ones instead of incurring costly repair costs.
If you want to install a new HVAC system, contact JAMCO Heating & Air Conditioning today for professional HVAC services. We offer comprehensive heating and cooling services year-round.
