Every HVAC unit has a lifespan - it’s just a fact. However, just because you hear odd noises or feel like your cooling system isn’t up to speed, doesn’t mean it’s time to replace your HVAC system. In order to truly know if you should replace or repair an HVAC unit, it comes down to a couple of key factors, that determine the efficiency and operating speeds of your unit.
The first thing that can determine what is going on with your unit - it’s age. Most HVAC units have a lifespan of 15 years, sometimes 20, but older systems normally start showing their true colors and experience reoccurring problems.
We recommend replacing your unit after 15-20 years, just so you don’t spend unjustly repair costs on a unit that is no longer efficient.
However, there is no need to replace a unit prematurely! Just because you might experience problems with the heat pump, doesn’t mean it’s time to start from scratch. Reliable HVAC technicians, such as the ones here at Swaim Electric, will be able to come in and diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently, so you can avoid unnecessary replacement costs.
No one likes spending unnecessary money, so imagine getting an energy bill from your utility company that is abnormally high! You’ll be able to notice something is going on with your unit by the end of the month, based on that unusually high bill. It’s important to think about whether or not your unit is going to provide the same long term savings your home needs, in order to reduce spending and make energy-conscious choices.
If you find your system consuming more energy than usual, think about its energy star certification. Purchasing a brand new residential HVAC installation is a serious decision, but local heating and air service technicians can guide you to make an informed choice. At Swaim, all of our Trane units are energy star certified and will reduce your overall energy consumption.
It’s important to consider the overall energy-saving benefits your unit has to offer. If you’ve purchased an energy star certified unit within the last few years, contact a technician to see what the problem could be. It’s possible that external forces have displaced tubes or wiring within your unit, causing friction with your heat pump or cooling system.
It’s important to think about the annual maintenance required to take care of your unit. Without the proper routine maintenance, your heating and cooling systems could be compromised after a few years, rather than lasting it’s full 15-20 year potential! Dealing with a damaged AC unit or broken heat pump because you didn’t take the proper precautions is the last thing you want to face.
If you are dealing with an older unit, without much maintenance history, and in need of more than a few mild repairs, think about the ultimate costs of this decision. The long term goal of an HVAC unit is to be cost-effective and supply your home with perfect temperatures year-round. Keeping energy bills low isn’t the only thing that’s important - making a financial decision because it’s a quick fix, not a long term solution, isn’t in the best interest of your unit. Think about what you’re looking for in terms of your investment, and keep up with annual maintenance so your unit stays pristine for years to come.
While the suggestions above are a fair guideline of what you should keep an eye out for, the most important thing when it comes to your HVAC unit is that it promotes a healthy environment and clean air throughout your home. If you notice these reoccurring issues, it might be time to replace your unit:
However, you’ll never know which route is better for your home without the insight of professional technicians. At Swaim Electric, we offer resources like annual maintenance and service agreements, to help preserve the life of your unit. If you notice any one of these reoccurring problems happening throughout your home or impacting your HVAC unit, please give us a call. We’d be happy to diagnose the problem and help your unit get back to running like normal.
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