Over time, your HVAC system won’t be as powerful as the day you installed it. You will notice that it constantly breaks down and that it doesn’t heat or cool as efficiently anymore. Just like every household appliance, your HVAC system will show signs which indicate that it’s at the end of its life. We’ve compiled the top five signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system.

Your HVAC is Over 10 Years Old

According to the Department of Energy, you should replace your HVAC system every ten to fifteen years. If you bought a new home with a pre-installed HVAC system, you should consider asking the previous owners when it was installed. While modern HVACs are designed to withstand rugged elements, their major parts will begin to show clear signs of wear and tear especially with heavy use.

High Repair Costs

If your HVAC technician computes the estimated cost for repairs to be roughly the same as replacing your entire system, purchasing a new HVAC system might be a smarter investment. All HVACs require regular maintenance during their lifetime, but if your system needs repairs almost every month, this could indicate that you’re better off replacing the whole system altogether.

Skyrocketing Energy Bills

Another sign that you should replace your HVAC system is if your electricity bill begins to skyrocket. Your energy bills should be similar throughout the year, unless you buy a large appliance, so if you notice spikes in your energy bill, you might want to replace or repair your HVAC system. As your HVAC system ages, it won’t be as efficient anymore, which means it will have to work twice as hard to heat or cool your home. Buying a newer HVAC unit can cut your bills by up to 20%.

Uneven Temperatures

An old HVAC system won’t be able to maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home. This problem may be caused by a damaged thermostat, clogged filters, damaged motors, etc., and can typically be fixed by an HVAC technician, but if your system still can’t supply air sufficiently, it might be time to say goodbye. Uneven temperatures also usually indicate that your system isn’t heavy-duty enough to heat or cool your entire home.

Bad Smells and Unusual Sounds

Foul smells from your HVAC system could just mean that there’s dust burning off due to an uncleaned air filter. However, it could also be a sign that its wiring is melting away. In this case, it would be best to call an HVAC technician to inspect your system immediately. Also, a well-maintained HVAC should produce no humming, squealing, or grinding sounds. If you notice any of these odd noises, this could mean that its components have become obsolete.

Conclusion

Don’t wait for the day that your HVAC stops functioning entirely. By keeping an eye out for these telling signs that your system needs replacement, you can prevent unexpected cold nights and sweaty summer afternoons. If you’re not sure that your HVAC system needs replacement, you should contact your trusted HVAC technician for a proper assessment.