Your Naples, FL home’s HVAC system is essential to maintaining a comfortable temperature indoors throughout the entire year. Once your HVAC system begins to have issues, you’ll quickly notice a decline in your home’s comfort level and air quality. For these reasons and several others, it’s important to take great care of your air conditioning and heating unit.
However, there will come a time when a new HVAC system is required. Even the highest quality systems that are well maintained will eventually need replacing. Knowing when to replace your unit is the first step to ensuring your home’s indoor air stays comfortable and healthy at all times.
Not sure what to look for in a system that needs replacing? Continue reading below for a list of several signs that a new HVAC system is needed.
1. You Haven’t Replaced It in Over 10 Years
When was the last time you had a new unit installed in your home? If it’s been over 10 years, then your unit is most likely due for a replacement. You want to replace your HVAC system every 10-15 years.
HVAC units are made with durable parts, but after 10 years, these parts will begin to deteriorate. How the system was maintained and how often it was used will be a variable in determining when it’s due for replacement, but the 10-15 year window is a general rule to follow.
By this time, replacing it with a new unit will lower your carbon footprint and your monthly energy costs as well.
2. The Costs to Repair It Are High
Once an HVAC unit begins to deteriorate, you’ll notice it needs more and more repairs on a more frequent basis. If you find yourself constantly repairing your HVAC unit, then this is a sign it’s time to replace it. Having to make frequent repairs (either the same repairs or different ones each time) can add up.
These repairs can get costly, and although you might have to spend more money upfront for a new unit, you’ll save money by not having to make costly repairs on a regular basis.
3. It Requires Freon on a Regular Basis
Does your HVAC unit require freon to help keep the air cool? R-22 freon is gradually being phased out for use in HVAC units. This type of refrigerant isn’t healthy for the environment, so it won’t be used in new models.
If your unit still uses this freon, then this is a good sign it’s time for a new unit. It’s also important to take note of how often you’re having to use any type of refrigerant in your unit. Having to put refrigerant in your HVAC unit on a regular basis is a sign that something’s not working properly.
The unit should be able to produce cold AC throughout your home without you having to constantly replace the refrigerant. There could be a leak or another issue at hand, so be sure to contact professional HVAC services near Bonita Springs, FL to assess the situation.
4. You Notice the House Is Too Hot or Cold
As your HVAC unit begins to age out, it’ll struggle to cool or heat a room efficiently. If you notice rooms in your home either being too hot or cold (during the winter), then this could signal that something’s not working right with your cooling or heating system. If you live in a multi-story home, then pay close attention to the temperature on both levels of the home.
Is the upstairs much hotter than the downstairs? A good HVAC technician in the Port Charlotte, FL area will be able to determine the cause of the problem and the best solution.
5. The System Makes Strange Noises
When your HVAC unit is running, do you often hear unusual noises? Although an older unit might be a bit louder when running than a brand new unit, it shouldn’t be making strange noises. Noticing any clanking or other noises you’ve never heard your HVAC unit make before should signal to you that something’s not right.
To determine the exact cause, you’ll need to have a professional technician come out to inspect the unit.
6. Your Monthly Energy Bill Has Gone up
When your HVAC system can’t function efficiently, you’ll notice an increase in your monthly energy bill. Although it’s normal for your energy bill to increase and decrease depending on the month or season, it should remain consistent based on what you’re used to paying the years before.
If you notice an unusually high energy bill, then the HVAC unit will need servicing or replacement. There could be several reasons why your HVAC unit isn’t running smoothly, so the best thing to do is find the problem and make the repair.
7. The HVAC System is Leaking
Have you noticed water dripping from your indoor unit? When your HVAC system is leaking, water will accumulate on the floor underneath the unit. You may also notice your air conditioning freezing on a regular basis as well.
The refrigerant could be leaking from the outside unit, causing this to happen. If you notice any types of leaks, then it’s best to have a professional HVAC service in the Punta Gorda, FL area come out and diagnose the issue.
Is It Time to Replace Your Fort Myers HVAC System?
Is your HVAC system ready for replacement? Use the helpful signs listed in this guide above to determine if your HVAC unit is in need of repair or a full replacement. When you’re unsure of the best course of action to take, never hesitate to contact Florida Heat and Air.
We specialize in air conditioning, heating, maintenance, and indoor air quality. Click here to get a quote today and schedule your HVAC service.
