Is it time to replace or upgrade your HVAC system?

Often, the first time we notice that we need to replace our HVAC system is when it dies. Of course, this will usually be the day before your in-laws arrive to stay with you for two weeks in the middle of a summer heat wave.

Is there a convenient way to evaluate whether it is time to upgrade or replace your HVAC system? Yes. Go through this list. If you can answer yes to more than three of these questions, it may be time to replace or upgrade.

Is your HVAC system more than 10 years old?

If your heat pump or air conditioner is more than 10 years old, you should seriously consider an ENERGY STAR labeled unit. They can save up 20 percent on your heating and cooling costs all year long.

Is your furnace more than 15 years old?

Again, ENERGY STAR qualified furnaces run on average 15% more efficiently than older, conventional furnaces.

 

Are repair bills becoming more frequent and more expensive?

No HVAC system is made to last forever. While a good unit may be worth the time and money to fix, if your energy bills are rising as much as your repair bills, it may be time to upgrade or replace your HVAC system.

 

Are some rooms in your home consistently too hot or too cold?

Your equipment may be showing signs of aging if some rooms don’t feel quite right. However, first check to see if your duct work and HVAC equipment have been installed properly. If it hasn’t, a quick fix might be better than a replace or upgrade.

 

If people are away from the home for long periods, does your system have a programmable thermostat?
You can easily start saving money in your sleep or while you’re at work. Have a qualified technician upgrade your HVAC system to have a programmable thermostat. Make sure the technician teaches you how to program the thermostat, and that you get a copy of the manual.

 

Do you have humidity problems?
Leaks in your ductwork can cause too dry air in the winter and too humid air in the summer. Consider a good once-over to check for leaks or poor equipment operation.

 

Is your home excessively dusty?
If you have leaks in your ductwork, dust from attics, crawl spaces, and basements can get sucked in and dispersed throughout your home.

 

Can you hear yourself think when the air is on?
A too-small duct system or indoor coil problem can create a cacophony of noise that needs to be looked at.

These are just a few of the questions to ask when you are a considering an upgrade or replacement of your HVAC system.

Home Comfort services AC’s and furnaces in the Mishawaka/South Bend areas of Indiana.  To get started, check out our Heating and cooling website or see our special offers.