Your AC is one of the most important systems in your home. It’s also one of the biggest investments you can make in terms of the comfort and value of your home. An old HVAC system is prone to a number of issues, from high utility bills to costly repairs and more. While some of these issues can be solved with a little routine maintenance and repair, others are indicative that your system is ready to be replaced.
When the time comes to replace your AC, you’ll be glad you called the experts from Champion Air. We have provided top-notch HVAC replacement services throughout Phoenix, AZ, since 1982. Keep reading to learn how you can spot the signs that an HVAC replacement is in your near future.
1. HVAC System Is More Than 10 Years Old
When was your last HVAC system installed? If it was more than a decade ago, then it’s definitely time to consider a replacement. According to the Department of Energy, you should have your system replaced every 10 to 15 years. That’s because the components begin to wear down from years of use, a process that can be hastened by heavy usage or infrequent maintenance. On top of wear and tear, older models use a type of freon known as R-22, which is bad for the environment. With a new model, you can feel confident that you’re shrinking your carbon footprint while also enjoying a more consistent comfort and performance.
2. Utility Bills Keep Going Up
While it’s normal for your bill to fluctuate with the seasons, your bills should be relatively similar from year to year. If you notice that each year your bill is creeping higher and higher, then there could be a problem with your HVAC system. Oftentimes, the culprit behind escalating energy bills is an old and outdated system. As your system gets older, its efficiency will naturally begin to decline. This leads to homeowners having to spend more money on the same amount of heating and cooling. Regular maintenance will keep your HVAC system running at peak performance for as long as possible, but you will still need to upgrade your system about once per decade.
3. Repairs Are Costly
As your HVAC gets older, it will become more prone to breakdowns and repairs. While a minor repair here and there is no problem, a major repair can be extremely costly. As a general rule of thumb, you should not pay more than half the cost of a new HVAC system for a repair. So, if you get a high repair estimate, be sure to compare it to the price of a new model. In this scenario, buying a new unit is a better investment in the long run.
4. Can’t Maintain a Comfortable Temperature
Does your home feel hot even while the AC is running? Or perhaps your furnace is struggling to keep up with cold winter temperatures? Poor or uneven temperatures are indicators that something is wrong with your HVAC system. It could be a minor issue, like a faulty thermostat or clogged filters, or it could be something much more serious. That’s why it’s important to have a trusted technician inspect your unit if you notice inconsistent temperatures. Your system could be old, on the verge of a serious mechanical failure, or the wrong size for your home. If a replacement HVAC is needed, our technicians will make sure you get the right size and brand for your home.
5. Poor Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality is important because it impacts your health and comfort. Poor air quality can lead to everything from coughing and sneezing to full-blown asthma attacks. Excess levels of moisture caused by a faulty AC can even lead to mold and mildew growth in your home.
Not only can poor air quality affect your health, but it also impacts the health of your HVAC system. If your HVAC’s internal components are clogged with dust and debris, it will compensate by working harder. This causes the system to overheat and components to wear out much more quickly than clean, well-maintained systems. If your indoor air quality has taken a turn for the worst, then you might need a replacement HVAC sooner than later.
6. Runs Constantly
During the hottest and coldest times of the year, your heating and cooling system will frequently run to keep your home comfortable. It’s normal to hear the system kicking on and off during the day, but running at a constant pace without pause is a problem. Usually, running non-stop means the system cannot keep up the temperature on your thermostat. It could be that the sensor is dirty or damaged. Depending on the age and condition of your unit, a replacement might be your best option.
7. Frequently Turns Off and On
In addition to a constantly running HVAC being problematic, it’s also troubling if your system turns off and on constantly. One common cause is having an HVAC system that is too large for your home. If this is the case, then we recommend having the unit replaced with something more appropriately sized for your home. We carry units in all sizes, so you can feel confident that you’re getting a new system that will keep your home comfortable with maximum efficiency in mind.
8. System Is Making Unusual Noises
It’s not normal to hear your HVAC make sounds like rattling, banging, or clanking. Those kinds of sounds are associated with parts that are loose or damaged. They can also indicate that your system is on its last legs. If you notice frequent or loud sounds, call our trusted HVAC technicians right away. We can diagnose the problem and let you know the best service option for your needs.
9. Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping
It’s common for a circuit breaker to trip every now and again, but frequently tripped breakers are a problem. When a circuit trips, it’s a sign that one of your home appliances–like your HVAC system–is trying to draw too much electricity at once. For home heating and cooling systems, this could mean that your unit is being overworked. It can also mean that your HVAC system is the incorrect size for your home.
When Champion Air replaces the old unit with a correctly sized unit, you should notice your circuits are much less prone to tripping. Before we choose your new system, we’ll take detailed measurements of your home and determine the best placement for the new system. We do our due diligence with each and every installation.
Champion Air is your one-stop-shop for your heating and air conditioning needs in Scottsdale and the surrounding area. From installation and replacement to maintenance and repair, we are here to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient all season long. We are proud to carry a lineup of top-notch HVAC systems from brands like Lennox, Trane, Carrier, and Maytag. When the time comes for an HVAC replacement, you can count on our technicians to provide long-lasting results and responsive customer service.
Not sure if it’s time to replace your HVAC? Let us help! Call our team today, and one of our technicians will help you decide the best service for your situation.
