When To Consider HVAC Replacement
HVAC Repair VS Replacement In Oklahoma City
HVAC Replacement Or Repair?
Which Is Right For Your System
When your HVAC system starts to malfunction, you may begin to wonder if you need HVAC replacement or repair. Your HVAC system is an essential part of your home’s vital systems, so ensuring that it is working for you and your family during all seasons is essential.
All components of your HVAC system require maintenance as they age over time. However, even with preventative maintenance plans, your HVAC system will eventually reach the end of its lifespan. A complete replacement can be costly and time-consuming. Therefore, it is important to consider if your HVAC system can handle another repair instead of a full upgrade.
HVAC Replacement Considerations
Cost, Effectiveness, And Lifespan
It’s frustrating when you experience a malfunctioning HVAC unit. If you are facing a hot or cold day and your HVAC unit doesn’t provide warm or cold air when you need it, it’s time to think about an HVAC replacement.
Understanding when it is time for a complete system replacement versus a repair job can depend on various factors. Here are a few considerations to take into account if you are considering an HVAC replacement:
Safety
One of your most important considerations should revolve around the safety of your HVAC unit. If your system presents a safety hazard, an HVAC replacement should be a priority.
For example, a cracked heat exchanger in your furnace can lead to a poisonous carbon monoxide leak in your home which can be extremely dangerous if left untouched. While not all repairs are this dangerous, it is important to consider the potential hazards of the HVAC unit’s damage if you are considering repair versus replacement service.
Lifespan
The age of your unit should be another crucial factor when deciding between HVAC replacement and repair. The average lifespan of most HVAC systems falls at around 10 years. After that, you’ll likely experience more frequent repairs, breakdowns, and lowered efficiency. In some cases, you may be able to find the date of installation directly on your HVAC unit.
If your unit is older than 10 years, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is time to replace it entirely, but due to the improved efficiency of newer units, the older unit is likely costing you more to upkeep. If you have noticed decreased efficiency in your unit over time or during each season, your system may benefit from an upgrade.
Effectiveness
The inability to effectively heat or cool your home is a sign that your HVAC system has decreased in efficiency. If you notice temperature variations within your home or a reduced ability for your HVAC system to provide consistent temperatures throughout the years, it’s time to consider an HVAC repair or upgrade.
It is important to consider the efficiency of your system when deciding between HVAC repair and replacement so you can think about whether or not a new system might allow your home to have a more efficient temperature control system.
Repair Amount
The frequency of your repairs on your HVAC system is another consideration in deciding between HVAC repair and replacement. If you constantly call to repair your HVAC unit, this service can add up over time. Spending money on repairs consistently may be less cost-effective than replacing your entire HVAC system with an upgraded unit that will break down less and operate more efficiently. Investing in an upgraded unit can save you time and money if you have frequent repairs.
Signs It Is Time For HVAC Replacement
When Repair Isn’t Enough
Besides the above considerations, certain telltale signs will indicate when your system needs an upgrade. Replacing your HVAC unit before further damage can accumulate is essential to maintain comfortable temperatures in your home. By keeping an eye out for these signs, you can tell when your HVAC system needs a replacement:
More Dust
Your HVAC unit heats and cools your home while also providing ventilation. An efficient HVAC system can improve your home’s air quality through the elimination of dust, debris, dirt, and pet dander. It can also keep humidity down inside your home. If you notice an increase in dust in your home and higher humidity levels, this indicates your HVAC unit isn’t efficient enough to eliminate airborne particles, and it may be time for a complete replacement.
Strange Noises
Your HVAC unit shouldn’t make much noise during a normal cycle. However, as your system ages, you may begin to hear strange sounds like squealing or grinding. If your well-maintained HVAC unit is starting to make strange or loud noises, it is important to call a technician right away, as this may be an indication of a more significant problem and could require a complete HVAC replacement.
Unusual Odors
Similarly to strange sounds, if you begin to smell something odd or unusual from your HVAC unit, there could be many causes. While it could simply be the smell of dust burning off of your system, it could also indicate mold in your ducts or melting components. It’s best to contact a professional HVAC technician to determine the cause of the smell and they can then let you know if the damage is extensive enough for you to begin to consider a replacement.
Rising Energy Bills
Rising energy bills can be frustrating, especially when they increase without any change in the usage of your HVAC system. Over time, your HVAC system decreases in efficiency and loses the ability to heat and cool your home correctly. If your energy bill is increasing compared to prior years, this can be a common indication of a less efficient HVAC system that may need replacement.
Uncomfortable Temperatures
If you find it challenging to regulate the temperature in your home, it could mean that you either have an incorrectly sized or improperly functioning unit for your home or an aging HVAC system that is decreasing in efficiency. As your HVAC system ages, you may notice a natural decrease in its ability to maintain a consistent temperature in your home. While there are many reasons for this, you may want to consider a replacement to keep your energy costs low and your home comfortable.
R-22 Refrigerant Use
R-22 refrigerant has been phased out by the EPA over time due to its harmful impact on the ozone layer when released into the air. Although many HVAC systems still use R-22 refrigerant today, acquiring it for repairs has become costly and difficult. It may prove more cost beneficial to upgrade your old R-22 HVAC unit to a modern one without any harmful chemicals.
When To Schedule HVAC Replacement
What Time Of Year Is Best For HVAC Service?
It’s important to call a technician to determine if it’s time to replace or repair your HVAC system at the first sign of any damage. If you notice that your HVAC system needs a total replacement, it is essential that you schedule your replacement ahead of time so you aren’t caught without heat or air during the changing seasons.
While HVAC services may be more popular in the summer or winter months, scheduling your HVAC replacement in the fall will prevent you from having to wait for service. In addition, during mild weather, it can be easier to replace your HVAC system, as it is more tolerable to live without heat or air during a moderate season while your new system is installed.
Consult With An HVAC Professional
Contact Terry’s American
The best way to tell if your HVAC system needs repair or replacement service is to contact a professional for a complete evaluation. It can be difficult to decide whether to repair or replace your HVAC unit, and a Terry’s American technician will be happy to provide guidance and the best recommendations for your home’s needs.
Terry’s American has been providing top-quality HVAC services to homes around Oklahoma City for years. We offer regular maintenance checks to ensure everything with your HVAC system is up-to-date and working correctly. We strive to provide superior services at affordable rates, ensuring you and your family are always comfortable in your home. Our goal is complete customer satisfaction, so contact us today for all your HVAC repair and replacement needs.
