The average lifespan of an HVAC unit ranges from 10 to 20 years, depending on several factors. If your system is more than ten years old, it may appear to work, but it's likely that it's become much less efficient and is costing you a lot of extra money. The Department of Energy recommends replacing your HVAC system after 10 years for maximum efficiency. Some newer units can last up to 15 years, so be sure to check when yours was installed and ask a professional how long it should last.
Many homeowners in Hampton Roads struggle to decide the right time to replace their heating and cooling system at 26%. When it comes to deciding when to replace your HVAC system, there are several indicators that can help you make the right decision. If your heating and cooling system is more than ten years old, it will most likely use freon (or R-2 refrigerant). Due to its damage to the environment, manufacturing of R-22 has been phased out around the world.
There are options to convert the refrigerant chemical into a safer agent. However, you must weigh the costs of this repair, in addition to others on the horizon of an aging system. If your air conditioning system is 10 years old or older, you might be saying, “It's about time”. Your air conditioning system may have a problem with the compressor or with the coolant. The coolant may leak or be low.
Depending on the age of your air conditioning system, the cost of the refrigerant may be higher than investing in a new cost-effective system, especially if your system uses the now retired R-22 refrigerant.The local news outlet, WVEC 13News Now in Norfolk, contacted Smith & Keene as a local HVAC expert to find out that systems last 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance and care. If you start planning for replacement ahead of time, you can often extend the life of your current system and take steps to start saving money to invest in a new unit or system when the time comes. When it comes down to making a decision about whether or not it's time to replace your HVAC system, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration. The first thing to consider is how old your system is. EnergyStar recommends replacing your air conditioning unit every 10 to 15 years.
Even seemingly simple repairs to an air conditioning system can have dire consequences if done incorrectly. If you notice bad odors coming from your air conditioning system, it's not only annoying, but it could also be an indicator of a bigger problem in your unit. If you're wondering if your HVAC system needs to be replaced, a cost-benefit analysis can help you decide if repairing your old unit is as economical as simply replacing the unit completely. In addition to costly subsequent repairs of faulty or improperly installed equipment, your HVAC system can leak carbon monoxide or other toxins that expire due to deadlines to your home. Even so, you'll want to check with your experienced HVAC technician to discuss your air conditioning unit and the ducts that supply cold air. If you hear unusual noises (loud knocks and bumps, squeaking, squeaking, and whistling), your air conditioning system isn't working well.
Replacing your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system in the fall or spring is also often less inconvenient for home occupants due to mild temperatures. If your home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning system has one or more of these indicators, most likely, there will be a new system in your future. In short, if your heating, ventilation and air conditioning system is not operating at its optimal level, higher energy bills are expected. Since sealing leaks and insulating your home properly will help your HVAC system work more efficiently, you may not need a replacement yet. An air leak could be the cause of the problem in your HVAC system and is probably less expensive than replacing it.
The age of your system, repair costs, and outdated technology can be key factors when deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC system. While one cause of short cycles could be that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system is too big for your home, another cause will lead you down the road to repairs.
