As a homeowner, you are faced with countless important decisions about what to keep, what to repair, and what to replace. Investing in your home helps you to retain your home’s value and enjoy your surroundings. However, what to replace and when to replace it has few straightforward answers, especially when it comes to your heating and cooling equipment. Many homeowners are uncertain about how often their HVAC system needs to be replaced rather than just repaired.
It can be hard to tell when your HVAC is in need of a full replacement, and choosing to replace your HVAC system is a difficult and costly decision that cannot be taken lightly. Homeowners should take their time to understand how frequently their HVAC system should be replaced and the tell-tale signs that a replacement is needed.
Read on to understand the signs of an HVAC system reaching the end of its life and when it should be replaced.
When Should My HVAC Be Replaced?
Loud or unusual noises:
You might be used to your HVAC system rumbling and whirring when it starts up and shuts off, and these noises are completely normal – they are signs that your system is functioning to bring you a comfortable living environment. However, when these noises change significantly, it might be a sign that it is time for your HVAC to be replaced. Are you hearing any loud bangs, metallic clangs, or squealing? Are there any interruptions to the relative quiet operation of your system? If so, it might be time to call a certified technician for an inspection and potential replacement.
Increased energy bills:
Energy bills change with the seasons. The temperate climates of spring and fall bring lower energy bills than the harsh conditions of summer and winter. Despite this, your energy bills in the same month across different years should be pretty similar. If your energy bills are consistently skyrocketing while your usage habits have remained the same, it is likely a sign that your system is declining in efficiency or is malfunctioning. In both cases, your system is probably in need of replacement.
Inconsistent performance:
It is a classic struggle. You might be able to get the temperature just right in the living room but struggle to get anywhere close to comfortable in the bedroom. While many might accept this as just the way things are, it is certainly not the way it is supposed to be. If it is challenging to keep your home at a comfortable temperature that is consistent from room to room, it may be because your system is inefficient and needs a full replacement.
How Often Should I Replace My HVAC System?
Although obvious, you should start preparing to replace your HVAC system as it ages. With proper maintenance, an air conditioning system can last anywhere from 10-15 years. Because they are not exposed to outdoor elements, furnace or boiler systems typically last 15-20 years. Skipping maintenance means that your unit is likely to become inefficient on the earlier end of that timeframe.
The end-of-life date for HVAC systems is variable, and the question of when HVAC should be replaces has no easy answer. Generally, if the equipment has been in use for close to its average lifespan, if the system has become inefficient, and if repairs are becoming more and more expensive, it may be time to consider replacing your HVAC system.
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