3 Signs It's Time To Replace Your HVAC Unit
If you live in an area where temperatures can drop in the winter months and climb during the summer, a functioning HVAC unit is very important. Your HVAC unit plays a critical role in maintaining a comfortable temperature within your home. Over time, however, you might notice that the performance of your HVAC unit can begin to decline.
With the average cost of replacing a heating and air conditioning system ranging between $6,000 and $12,000 for a 1,000 square-foot home, you might be reluctant to replace your unit before it's absolutely necessary. Here are three signs you can be watching for to help you determine when it's time to replace your HVAC unit.
1. Mounting Repair Costs
Minor repairs are to be expected as your HVAC unit works to maintain a constant temperature in your home. The occasional part that needs replacing or issue that must be addressed by a repair professional isn't really cause for concern, but mounting repair costs could signal it's time to replace your HVAC unit with a new one.
If you find that you are contacting a repair professional to address the same issue each heating or cooling season, or the total cost of annual repairs is higher than it has been in previous years, it's time to talk to a heating and cooling specialist for information on replacing your HVAC unit.
2. Poor Air Quality
A functioning HVAC unit should be able to heat or cool your home without compromising air quality. Contacting an HVAC technician to conduct annual air quality inspections within your home will help you know when it's time to replace your HVAC unit to ensure that integrity of the air you breathe inside your home each day.
Experts estimate that the average person spends 90% of their time indoors and breathes in about 15,000 quarts of air each day. Faulty HVAC components can allow pollen, dust mites, and other contaminants to enter your indoor air supply, putting you at risk for developing respiratory problems. If a technician records a reduction in your home's indoor air quality, consider replacing your HVAC unit to avoid potential health problems.
3. Increased Energy Costs
Your HVAC unit could become less energy-efficient over time. If you notice a sudden increase in your utility costs, investing in a new HVAC unit could reduce your monthly expenses.
New energy-efficient HVAC units can save you a significant amount of money, since nearly 40% of your monthly energy bill can be attributed to heating and cooling. If your HVAC unit is more than 10 years old and causing your utility bill to increase, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model in the near future,
Knowing when to replace your HVAC unit will help you save money on repair and utility costs and maintain quality indoor air for you and your family to breathe.