At What Point Does it Make Sense to Stop Putting Money Into an Old Heating & Cooling System and Replace HVAC System?
Heating and air conditioning systems can work for a long time if you properly maintain them. However, there comes a time when various components start giving up, and the system starts failing. If the system fails, you will need to decide whether to repair or replace HVAC system. It’s not easy especially from a financial standpoint.
You need to decide whether you want to spend more money on repairing a heating and air conditioning system or whether you want a completely new system that is more energy efficient and will save you money in the long run.
Whatever you do, one thing is certain; the longer you wait, the more you are going to pay in the long run. If your system is not performing well and you choose to ignore the necessary repairs, those repairs will cost you a lot more when you finally decide to get them done.
An inefficient system not only costs more but it also is not safe to be living in a place with a failing system. A cracked or clogged system is not only a fire hazard but can also lead to the spread of harmful gases inside your house. However, you can easily take care of these potential problems by getting your Edmonton HVAC system checked from an experienced HVAC contractor.
There are a number of experienced HVAC contractors that can help homeowners like you find the best climate control for your needs. In addition to the recommendations for the right central heating and air conditioning system, they can also offer various options and installs for the chosen solution.
However, if you’re still not sure whether to replace or repair the old cooling and heating system, you need to replace the system if the furnace has deteriorated beyond repair. But this is not the only sign telling you to replace the old HVAC system.
Here are 11 signs that it’s time to get expert recommendations from an experienced HVAC contractor whether to repair or replace the existing HVAC system.
HVAC System Is Really Old
One general rule of thumb regarding HVAC systems is that if your furnace, air handler or heat pump is more than 15 years old, you should give serious thought to replacement. There are a number of highly efficient heating and cooling systems available today, and it is in your best interest to get your old system replaced before it fails causing you avoidable stress and discomfort.
Even if your system is old and you think that it may last you a few more years, you need to keep in mind that your system is not the most energy-efficient. Therefore, it is recommended to replace it with an ENERGY STAR unit. The new units with this label are up to 20% more energy efficient and can save you up to 20% money on the heating and cooling energy costs.
HVAC System Is Producing Bad Smell
Do not ignore unpleasant odors coming out of your HVAC system. It can be a sign of a bigger problem with the system. One of the most common reasons of these unpleasant smells are gases trapped in the flue.
In addition to producing these bad smells, some of these gases can be very harmful to pets and people inside the home. Therefore, you should immediately call an experienced HVAC contractor to take a look at the problem.
Energy Bills Have Gone up
There was a time when fuel and electricity were cheap. However, those times are long gone and these days, fuel and electricity cost a lot more and the cost is only going to go up. If you are still using the old equipment, you are paying a higher price for your energy as old HVAC system is highly inefficient.
Experienced Edmonton HVAC contractor can help you in comparing the cost of staying with the existing system or replacing it with an energy efficient model.
Many people are not aware that heating and cooling systems available today are up to 60% more energy-efficient compared to systems made even ten years ago. Therefore, it is recommended to replace the old system if you are constantly worried about higher energy bills and high repair costs.
It is true that you will need to spend some money initially but the energy savings each month will provide you a good return on investment. Even if you decide to finance your purchase, you should consider the monthly savings on energy bills to calculate the true cost of replacement.
As mentioned above, it is best to buy only an ENERGY STAR labeled product. Other than the boilers, products with this label are up to 15% more energy efficient as compared to the other products. Boilers are around 5% more efficient as compared to other models.
Old System Needs Regular Repairs
If your system requires frequent repairs, it may be a sign that it needs replacement. One general rule of thumb is that if you had to call for repair in the last two years, it is better to replace the system.
When you take into account the money saved on your energy bills and repairs, you will find that the new system gives you a positive return on investment before long.
Strange Noises
If you notice any strange noises coming from inside the old HVAC system, it is best to get it checked by a professional HVAC contractor. Usually, excessively running blower fan is one of the causes of these noises. It is also important to keep in mind that all machines make unique noises and you need to listen for noises that do not sound normal.
Your Home Is Undergoing Significant Remodeling
If you have plans for significant remodeling of your home that may lead to big additions, you may need to upgrade the HVAC system to ensure that the system can take care of increased heating and cooling needs.
Air Quality Inside Your Home Is Not to Your Liking
If you feel that the system is unable to keep dust outside, it is a sign that the HAVC system is not working properly and either needs repairs or replacement. You also need to call an expert if frequent changes of the air conditioning and heating filters does not improve the air quality.
You Do Not Feel Comfortable in Your Home
If there are spots in your home that are too cold or too hot, you won’t feel comfortable in your home. An efficient HVAC system will evenly cool and heat your home.
However, if that is not the case, you should look at getting your system repaired or replaced. Such hot and cold spots may be the sign of problems with the draft, signs of mould or increased dust.
Your Home Has Extreme Dryness or Humidity
If you are experiencing extreme humidity or dryness inside the home, it is a sign that your old system is not working properly. Therefore, you need to upgrade the system to increase the comfort level.
You Want a Green System
You can play your part in keeping the planet Green by replacing your old and highly inefficient HVAC system with a more efficient system. Going green will not only help you in saving money on heating and cooling costs but will also be better for the environment.
Better Safety
And old gas furnace is always at the risk of releasing dangerous carbon monoxide gas into your home. However, this risk can be greatly reduced by replacing your old gas furnace with modern furnaces that come with inbuilt safety features.
Experienced HVAC Edmonton contractors can help you decide whether you should repair or replace the existing HVAC system. The inspection by contractors involves checking of wiring, ductwork, refrigerant piping, insulation, flue piping, electrical service and various other components. Replacing the damaged parts before they completely fail will help in saving a lot on repair costs at a later date.
Overall, when you are ready to have a new heating and air conditioning Edmonton system, ensure that only a properly licensed HVAC contractor does the installs and the maintenance. An experienced contactable take into account the cooling and heating needs to ensure that you get the most value out of the money spent on new HVAC system.