6 Signs That Your HVAC System Needs to Be Replaced
In Jacksonville, a functional HVAC system is essential to the health and comfort of your family. Fortunately, HVAC systems generally last 10-15 years with regular maintenance.
However, there comes a time when your unit will need to be replaced. Keeping track of these signs can help you plan accordingly.
1. You’re Spending More on Energy Bills
Even if you’re doing everything right with your home systems, there comes a time when they must be replaced. Air conditioning units are not indestructible, and they lose energy efficiency as they age. Furthermore, system energy-efficiency ratings five or 10 years ago are nowhere near what they are today.
High utility bills can be a major problem for many families. They can cause you to fall behind on your energy payments and could ultimately lead to the shut-off of essential utilities. Replacing old equipment with new, efficient equipment can help you save money and avoid these potential problems. It can also reduce your energy usage, which is good for the environment and your wallet.
2. You’re Having Frequent Repairs
If your repair bills are piling up and you find yourself calling the local air conditioning company more than once a year, it’s time to start shopping around for a new unit. Frequent repairs can be costly and may lead to more serious problems in the future.
Uneven room temperatures are a sign that your cooling system isn’t functioning correctly, and it’s likely that your ductwork is to blame. A newer, properly-sized AC system will be able to reach the right temperature throughout your home and save you money in energy costs in the long run.
A handy rule of thumb is to multiply the cost of a repair by your system’s age and see if it makes sense to replace your cooling equipment instead.
3. You’re Experiencing Poor Indoor Air Quality
Air pollution is a serious health concern. Some of the immediate effects include congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes or nose, headache, lethargy, and fatigue. Other symptoms, such as some respiratory diseases or even certain cancers, may show up later on in life.
Poor indoor air quality is often caused by a lack of ventilation in homes or commercial buildings. This can be due to sources like deteriorated insulation, certain pressed wood products, or central heating and cooling equipment; faulty chimneys; smoke from cooking and smoking indoors; and other sources.
In addition, some sources can produce unpleasant odors, such as mold or mildew. These odors can be difficult to get rid of, and are usually intensified by high humidity levels and poor circulation.
4. You’re Experiencing Loud Noises
While a quiet hum is normal, any banging, rattling or screeching sound from your cooling equipment isn’t. These noises reflect a serious problem that can quickly lead to a costly repair or system replacement.
A rattling sound usually indicates that there are small objects, like twigs or nails, stuck inside your HVAC unit’s fan. A squealing sound is a more alarming problem that could mean your air conditioner’s bearings are damaged or your fan belt is worn out. Both of these problems require a professional to fix. Continuing to run your AC with these issues can result in even worse damage. So call a Smith & Keene technician right away to diagnose the problem and suggest a long-lasting solution.
5. You’re Experiencing Strange Smells
Odd smells coming from your air conditioning system are an indication that something isn’t right. They can be caused by mold or other issues, such as a clogged drain pan.
A fishy or burning smell may indicate that electrical components like capacitors, fan belts, or circuit boards are overheating or have burned out. Shut off the air conditioner and call a professional as soon as possible to ensure your safety.
A rotten egg odor is probably the most serious sign of a problem with your cooling equipment. This odor can be caused by natural gas, which is usually odorless, but utility companies add a compound called Methyl Mercaptan to the gas so it has a distinctive rotten egg odor to help homeowners identify a leak quickly.
6. You’re Experiencing Unusual Symptoms
If your system’s normal humming sounds are turning into rattling and grinding noises, it’s time to call an expert. These sounds indicate that internal parts are getting worn out and need replacing.
Overheating is another sign that it’s time for a replacement. This can be caused by coolant leaks, a faulty thermostat, a leaking water pump, or other problems.
When these signs occur, it’s time to start shopping around for a new cooling system. A new, energy-efficient unit will help you save on your energy bills and avoid costly repairs in the future.
The article presents some valid points, but I am skeptical about needing a new HVAC system just because of loud noises. Some repairs and maintenance can solve those issues.
Great article! I found it very informative. I didn’t realize that loud noises and strange smells could be a sign of needing a new HVAC system. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for those signs.
This is fantastic information! I had no idea that poor indoor air quality could be linked to the HVAC system. Thank you for sharing this important knowledge.
I’m not convinced. I think the article is exaggerating the signs of needing a new HVAC system.
I completely agree! This is crucial information for anyone with an HVAC system in their home.
The article was both informative and amusing! Who knew an unusual smell could indicate a problem with the HVAC system? I’ll be more attentive to these signs in the future.
I agree, it was an eye-opening read. I’ll definitely be more aware of these signs from now on.
I disagree. I think the article’s attempt at humor detracts from the seriousness of the topic.
I strongly disagree with the article. I have an old HVAC system and it still works perfectly fine. There’s no need to replace it just because of a few noises and higher energy bills.