Nothing is more infuriating than an unexpected breakdown of a major piece of equipment in your home. It’s easy to lose your cool when you’re suddenly faced with a huge project that will cost you both money and time.
Don’t worry, though – these things happen and home maintenance is inevitable. If you know what to watch for, you can take note of early signs that your HVAC system is struggling. We may be able to catch the problem early and repair it. If not, our skilled Whyte Ridge team can help you get it replaced quickly and easily.
Watch for these signs that your HVAC system may need a little TLC, and give us a call before you lose your cool … or your heat.
1. Your HVAC system is aging.
By the time your HVAC system hits its teenage years, you might want to start preparing for a replacement. The average lifespan of an HVAC system is around 15-20 years.
At Whyte Ridge, we install high quality, Canadian-made Napoleon products that have a reputation for longevity. But even if your furnace lasts 20 years or more, you’ll want to watch for signs that it’s becoming less efficient over time. Cracks or leaks can put your family in danger.
2. You’ve already had repairs done.
Requiring frequent repairs is an indication that your HVAC system is nearing the end of its life. At Whyte Ridge, we recommend annual maintenance checks to ensure that everything is working optimally, but you shouldn’t require extensive repairs on your system too often. If you’ve already needed to have things fixed several times, it’s likely time for a new HVAC system.
3. Your bills are going up.
Right now, everyone’s bills are going up, with climbing energy prices. However, if your bills seem out of step with your expectations and you’re paying more than you feel you should be (even considering price increases), it could be a sign that your HVAC system is too old.
HVAC systems lose efficiency with every year of age. And new technology is increasingly energy efficient, which means that comparing the energy use of your old system to a replacement one can be drastic. While a new HVAC system is expensive, it can ultimately save you a lot of money on your energy bills over its lifespan.
4. Your system is getting louder.
Are you hearing loud or unusual noises? If your basement is starting to feel like it’s haunted, it might mean that your HVAC system is experiencing a mechanical issue or aging parts, both indications that you’ll be in the market for a replacement system soon.
5. Your home is never the right temperature.
If your home seems to feel warmer or cooler in some areas than others, this could mean that your HVAC system isn’t evenly distributing air throughout your home. While it’s not uncommon for homes to have cooler basements, any changes in the ability of your HVAC system to keep your home consistently comfortable could indicate a problem.
6. You’ve noticed a difference in your air quality.
If dust, allergies, or respiratory issues have you down and installing a new high quality HEPA filter doesn’t do the trick, it might be because your aging HVAC system is no longer effectively filtering and purifying the air. It’s a good idea to have it inspected, as it could be a warning sign that you’re due for a replacement.
Do you need a new HVAC system?
While noticing just one or two of these signs doesn’t necessarily mean that you need a new HVAC system, it could mean that the day is coming soon. The more indicators you have that your HVAC system isn’t working optimally, the more likely you’ll need to replace it.
If we recommend having your HVAC system replaced, there’s no need to panic! Professional installation will ensure that your home continues to be heated and cooled as efficiently as possible. Our technicians have the skill and experience necessary to properly install your new system, keeping your home comfortable and safe for years to come.
Here’s why we recommend leaving the installation to the professionals:
- HVAC systems involve electrical wiring, gas lines, and other potentially hazardous components. Without proper training and safety precautions, attempting to install an HVAC system can put you and your home at risk.
- HVAC systems are complex and require extensive knowledge of electrical, plumbing, and ventilation systems. If this isn’t your area of expertise, leave the task to professional HVAC technicians like our team at Whyte Ridge.
- Proper sizing is critical to the performance and energy efficiency of an HVAC system. Trust the professionals to determine the correct size and type of system for your home, and to install it properly.
- Many HVAC systems come with manufacturer warranties that require professional installation. Attempting to install the system yourself could void the warranty.
Home maintenance projects of this magnitude might make you want to lose your cool, but we can help make the process easy. Call our experienced technicians at Whyte Ridge HVAC Furnace & Air Conditioning if you’re noticing signs of an aging system. We can provide you with professional advice on when to repair or replace your system, so you can keep your cool and your heat.
