The summers in Swannanoa, NC, often come with high heat and plenty of humidity. But the weeks before summer heat sets in are perfect for tuning up your current HVAC system or replacing it if needed. Though it can be tough to know exactly when you need to replace your system, there are a few key signs to look for. Here are five of them:
You Keep Paying Repair Costs
If your HVAC system is an older model, it may periodically need a part or two replaced. However, with older systems, homeowners often find themselves stuck with repair after costly repair.
Of course, the upfront cost for a new HVAC unit is likely to be significantly higher than the next repair cost. However, since repair costs tend to add up quickly, a new HVAC system may prove to be a better investment over time.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
An HVAC system that functions well helps ensure that allergens and other harmful particles don’t invade your home. But as a system begins to wear down, you may notice more dust than usual in your home. A deteriorating system also may cause excess indoor humidity, which is especially unpleasant in the hotter summer months.
If you suspect that poor air quality in your home is due to a deteriorating HVAC system, we can help. Our trained professionals can assess and clean your current unit and help you decide whether to purchase a replacement.
Longer Running Time
Provided that your HVAC system is the right size for your home, it should be able to maintain a constant indoor temperature with fairly minimal run time. As the system ages, you may notice that the running time increases as the system struggles to cool your home.
Usually, the runtime increases in two different ways. Sometimes, the system will start up more often than it used to — this is usually something you can hear. In other cases, it may stay on longer than normal, and it may take significantly longer to completely cool down your home.
If you do notice a longer running time, don’t immediately think that you’ll need to purchase a replacement system. One of our service technicians can check if your system needs a replacement blower motor or coil — a problem with one of these parts may cause a system to run longer.
Your HVAC System is More Than 10 Years Old
While doing routine maintenance can certainly extend the life of your HVAC system, most systems start to lose efficiency after a decade. At this point, they may start costing more in repairs.
HVAC technology advances significantly each decade, and newer units are more efficient and can help you save money on utility costs. Most newer HVAC systems also have advanced features like programmable thermostats. These types of features are both convenient and save energy.
If you make the decision to upgrade, navigating the world of new HVAC systems can be difficult. But one of our knowledgeable HVAC professionals can help you select the right system for your home.
You Hear Loud or Unusual Noises
Just like a car, if your HVAC system suddenly starts making loud noises, you know something is wrong. In some cases, loud noises may just mean that a component needs replacement. But if your system is still making loud noises after a maintenance visit, it might be time to start considering a replacement.
It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your HVAC system for any potential problems. We can guide you through the selection process and help keep you and your family comfortable all year round. Give Gentry Service Group a call today if you need a new HVAC system installed.
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