An HVAC system works all year round to keep your home as comfortable as possible. Homeowners should keep an eye out for the following issues indicating it’s time to replace the system.
When Should You Replace Heating And Air Conditioning System?
Let’s take a look at the signs of a failing heat and air conditioning system below. Any of these problems suggest a replacement is needed more than repairs.
Increasing Energy Bills
Noticeable increases in monthly energy bills can be an obvious indication of a failing system. The HVAC system could be working a lot harder than it needs to be, at this time.
Common causes of increasing energy bills include leaky ductwork, and aging components/controls. By upgrading your system, you could cut your energy use and see significant savings each month.
HVAC System Age
The majority of these systems will last between 10-15 years when properly maintained. Units that are older will not run as efficiently as newer models.
Older systems require more energy to both heat and cool a home. This means repair costs will often increase when the components ultimately wear out. Even if your older system seems to be running well, investing in an upgrade can save you money in the long run.
Frequent Repairs Needed
Of course, it is normal for HVAC systems to need some occasional maintenance. However, if your system needs repairs every season or a few times per year, it may be time to replace the unit.
The heating and cooling experts say if your repair bill is more than half the cost of a new system, a replacement is the better investment.
System Runs Constantly
The system is struggling to maintain its set temperature whenever it either runs constantly or turns on and off in short bursts. This will put a lot of stress on the system, typically identifying aging equipment as the culprit.
Short cycling can result in a higher-than-normal energy consumption, wear and tear, and excessive humidity inside the home.
Your Home Has Hot Or Cold Spots
If there are noticeable temperature changes depending on which room you are in, there could be an issue with your system’s airflow distribution and overall performance.
Duct problems can sometimes be the cause of this issue. Oftentimes, though, uneven temperatures in the home show that your system is not powerful enough.
The System Uses R-22 Refrigerant
Some older systems will feature the use of R-22 (Freon), which has been phased out recently due to environmental concerns. Today, R-22 is quite difficult to find and very expensive overall.
If your system does run on R-22, it’s suggested to replace it with a modern unit. Newer refrigerants are more cost-effective and environmentally responsible.
How Long Does An AC Unit Last?
It’s no secret the lifespan of an AC unit can change based on location. There are other factors that can certainly impact the lifespan, including how well it has been maintained and the specific AC model.
Throughout the majority of the U.S., AC units tend to last between 15-20 years total. In Arizona, however, AC units may only last 12-15 years due to the extreme weather.
Let’s take a look at a few common factors that can ultimately impact how long your AC unit lasts in Arizona.
Unit Size
For a long time, a lot of Arizona homes had AC units that were too large. This was referred to as “overtonning”.
Unfortunately, an oversized or undersized unit must work harder that a unit that is sized properly for your home’s needs. Oversized units cycle more often, which leads to more frequent repairs.
Environmental Conditions
With temperatures frequently rising in the triple digits, Arizona summers can wreak havoc on AC units. The extreme heat of the summers require systems to work overtime.
Additionally, the dusty and arid environment of the desert can cause increased wear and tear on the AC’s components.
Maintenance Needs
AC systems undoubtedly require some routine maintenance needs. The recommendation is to have your unit professionally serviced at least once each year.
Doing so will help to identify any potential problems before they become costly. You do not want your unit to work even harder than it should in the summer.
Usage
Frequency and duration of your usage can impact how long the AC unit will last. Wear and tear increases during the Arizona summers, as mentioned.
Commercial establishments that utilize AC around the clock will likely have to replace the units sooner than normal.
Installation Quality
The quality of the initial AC installation can also impact its expected lifespan.
Improper installation can result in reduced efficiency, so it is essential to hire an experienced HVAC company for this process.
Duct Cleaning
The ductwork needs to be well maintained for your unit to work properly. Regular duct cleaning is needed to keep your unit in the best shape possible.
When the ducts are dirty, energy bills will go up and the AC’s lifespan could ultimately decrease.
Tru Comfort Heating & Cooling In The Phoenix Valley
At Tru Comfort Heating & Cooling, we deliver reliable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions to enhance comfort and water quality. Whether you need HVAC installation, repair, maintenance, or water treatment solutions, our team is here to assist you every step of the way.
Contact us today for exceptional service from an insured and bonded HVAC company. Experience reliable and efficient solutions that exceed your expectations.
