The HVAC system in your Black Mountain, North Carolina, home is responsible for maintaining a comfortable atmosphere. It does that even when the weather conditions outside are changing drastically. However, if your unit can’t keep up with the needs of your household, it may be giving off some warning signs that it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. Here are five signs you might need to replace your HVAC system:
Old System
Although the age of your HVAC system isn’t a warning sign, it’s something you should keep track of to avoid a breakdown. Most HVAC manufacturers recommend replacing these units every 10–15 years. Your system contains major components that’ll start to deteriorate toward the end of this estimated timeline. As a result, the efficiency will often drop and you may end up with damaged components that you have to repair or replace more often.
An older unit may also use a R-22 refrigerant, which is harmful to the environment. New models don’t use this type of refrigerant anymore. Therefore, you can reduce your carbon footprint by upgrading to a newer HVAC system.
Rising Energy Bills
Although some fluctuation of energy bills is normal between months and seasons, you shouldn’t see a drastic spike. High energy bills can indicate an efficiency problem in your HVAC system, which may signal that it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. As these units age, their efficiency ratings tend to decline. That’s especially true if you aren’t keeping up with regular maintenance once or twice per year.
When your bills are out of control, contact an HVAC service technician to take a closer look and figure out what’s causing the sudden spike. Replacing an outdated HVAC unit with a high-efficiency model can help you trim your energy costs while reducing your environmental impact. Therefore, it’s worth considering when your HVAC system is costing you a lot to operate.
Uncomfortable Indoor Atmosphere
When it’s hard to heat or cool your home, a problem with your HVAC system could be the culprit. A number of issues can contribute to an uncomfortable indoor temperature, including:
- Low levels of refrigerant or fuel
- A damaged thermostat
- Cracks in the ducts
- Damaged motors
- Clogged air filters
However, in most cases, inconsistencies in the indoor temperature happen when your HVAC system isn’t powerful enough to move air throughout the entire house. Continuing to run your air conditioner or heater in an attempt to create a comfortable atmosphere will cost a lot. It could also cause further damage to the unit. Make sure to have a service technician check your system to determine whether a damaged component is to blame or if you need to replace the entire system. The sooner you seek professional help, the better.
Loud Sounds and Bad Smells
Strange sounds and unpleasant odors coming from the HVAC system can also signal the end of its lifespan. A burning odor can indicate that the wiring is overheating. The smell of rotten eggs could mean you have a gas leak. Loud banging, clanking, grinding or squealing noises should also warrant a professional inspection. These sounds could mean that a component has slipped out of place or a belt within the furnace has broken and is hitting against other pieces inside the unit. Without immediate attention, that part or belt can cause further damage.
More Dust and Allergy Symptoms
It’s impossible to keep your home completely free of dust and debris, but a sudden increase in the amount of dust settling on surfaces and flooring can indicate an HVAC issue. In addition to supplying heated and cooled air, your unit is responsible for ventilation. This ensures that fresh air can move through your home, eliminating stale odors and improving the quality of the air you breathe.
When the system is operating efficiently, it should be able to keep dust, dirt, dander, pet hair, pollen and other air pollutants under control. It’ll also manage healthy indoor humidity levels. If you spot an increase in dust or allergy symptoms, such as congestion, sore throats, eye irritation or coughing, your HVAC system may not be keeping up.
If your home’s HVAC system is struggling or showing any of these warning signs, contact Gentry Service Group. Call us at (828) 581-4045 to discuss a new HVAC system and the process of installation.
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