Benefits of HVAC Units and How Long They Last?

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HVAC Unit Systems

HVAC systems are core components of your home that experience heavy usage. They help control your house’s temperature, humidity, air quality, and noise levels. You may run your system year-round depending on the climate where you reside. Residents of more temperate climates often don’t even consider changing their heating/cooling equipment during winter because it seems like such a hassle. However, if you live in a climate that experiences extreme temperatures throughout the year, you may run your HVAC system well into spring and fall. This usage stresses your system, causing it to wear down faster than expected.

The average life expectancy of an air conditioning unit is 10 to 15 years. If you are lucky enough to find a good deal on a used AC unit, you might even be able to extend its life another 5 to 7 years. But don’t count on that happening. And if you do want to buy a new system, there are several things to consider.

First, how old is your current system? If it’s been working fine for many years, it’s probably still worth repairing rather than replacing.

Second, what type of installation did it come with? A window unit installed into a wall cavity usually lasts longer than a split-system unit mounted onto the roof.

Third, does your house have central air conditioning? Central systems tend to be less expensive to install and maintain throughout their lifetime than split units.

Fourth, what size is your room? Small rooms require smaller units, while larger ones often require larger models.

Fifth, do you live in a hot climate? Hot climates mean high humidity levels, which increase the likelihood of condensation problems.

Sixth, is your home located near a wooded area? Trees can cause leaves to fall inside your ductwork, causing blockages.

 Sings Your HVAC Unit Needs to be Replaced

If your energy bills increase yearly, your H V AC system is probably overworked. This is because the HVAC system is working harder than it needs to. If your home is insulated well enough and there aren’t too many air leaks, your HVAC should run much longer than 10 years.

Poor Air Quality

If you’re breathing in many dust particles daily, indoor air quality is less than ideal. Dust mites, mold spores, and pollen are some things that can make you feel ill inside your home.

A dirty air filter might be one culprit. But did you know that even if your HVAC system uses clean energy sources such as electricity or natural gas, it can still emit harmful chemicals into your home? For example, if you’ve got a furnace running on heating oil, it’s 130 times likelier to give off unhealthy air contaminants than a unit powered by natural gas.

That’s why switching to an electric air-source heater is the best way to improve your indoor air quality. An electric heat pump doesn’t use fossil fuels so that it won’t pollute your home with harmful gases. Plus, you’ll save money on your monthly utility bills.

Increasing Energy Bills

Homes are expensive investments, and regular maintenance and repair work is necessary to keep your property up to par. However, if you find yourself constantly shelling out cash on a high-end furnace and AC repairs, or if your unit doesn’t seem to perform as well as it used to, it might be time to consider replacing it altogether. A replacement will likely cost less than repetitively fixing the existing equipment and could save you long-term.

Fluctuating Air Temperatures

Air sealing and insulation are two essential parts of a well-functioning heating and cooling system. Insulation keeps heat inside your home; air sealing prevents it from escaping. If either part isn’t working correctly, you’ll notice problems like drafts, uneven temperatures, and discomfort.

The most common reason behind poor indoor comfort is ineffective air sealing. Air leaks around windows, doors and vents allow warm air to escape into colder areas of your home. These leaks cause drafts and make your home feel stuffy. They also reduce the effectiveness of your central heating and cooling systems since they don’t let enough cool air enter your home during cooler months.

In addition to air leakage, inadequate insulation leads to similar issues. Insulated walls keep heat inside your home, but if they aren’t sealed against the elements, they can become leaky over time. Warm air escapes through gaps in the wall, causing drafts and making your home feel stuffy, especially in warmer climates.

When you combine the air leakage and insulation issues mentioned above, you end up with a poorly functioning heating and cooling system. Your HVAC system won’t be able to maintain consistent temperature throughout your entire home. Instead, it will cycle on and off, wasting energy and creating uncomfortable conditions.

Over-Dependence on Fossil Fuel

If you’re considering replacing your old heating and air conditioning (HVAC) system, there are some things you should know. First, you’ll want to consider whether your current system is outdated—and if it is, how much longer it will run before needing replacement. Then, you’ll need to decide what type of system best fits your needs. Finally, you’ll need to choose a contractor to install it. 

Other Signs That Your HVAC System Needs Maintenance

When it comes to heating and cooling systems, many things can go wrong. You could have a faulty thermostat, leaky ductwork, or a broken compressor. All of these problems can cause discomfort and increased energy usage. Fortunately, there are ways to fix most of these issues without replacing your entire unit. Here are a few other common HVAC problems and how to solve them.

A Broken Thermostat

A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to excessive heat buildup inside your home. This can cause damage to your air conditioning units, pipes, and wiring. In addition, the high temperatures can make the house feel uncomfortably hot. To avoid these problems, contact a local HVAC contractor to install a new thermostat.

Leaking Ductwork

If you notice water dripping down from your ceiling, chances are good that there is some sort of problem with your ductwork. There are many leaks, including holes, cracks, and loose connections. These leaks can cause mold growth, moisture build-up, and general dampness throughout the home. Call a professional HVAC contractor to inspect your ductwork to prevent these problems. They can identify any potential issues and suggest solutions.

Malfunctioning Compressor

Compressors convert electricity into mechanical force at the heart of your HVAC system. Unfortunately, this process can wear out over time. As a result, your compressor might stop working altogether. If this happens, you’ll likely notice decreased airflow and overheating. Contact a professional HVAC technician to check your compressor to avoid these problems and keep your system running smoothly.

Deciding To Repair or Replace Your HVAC Unit

If you are looking into replacing your heating and cooling system, there are some things you need to know. First, you want to ensure that you are talking to someone who knows what he or she is doing. You can rest assured that Quality Home HVAC has many years of experience repairing and replacing HVAC systems.

However, you want to ensure that whoever you choose in helping you understand the options available to you. Some people just like to talk about their work. They love to show off the latest technology and explain why something works or doesn’t work. However, others prefer to keep it simple and let you decide.

Another thing to consider is whether or not you need a repair or replacement. There are many different types of systems out there. Do you need a central air conditioning system? In most cases, it isn’t necessary. Many homes today have ductwork that circulates cool air throughout the house. This is called a forced air system. If that is the case, you probably won’t need a separate cooling system.

Finally, you want to look at your budget. When considering a replacement, you want to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Contact Quality Home HVAC for Your Heating And Cooling Needs

If you live in the Denver, Colorado, area and are concerned about the state of your heating and cooling systems, we can help! Our team at Quality Home HVAC offers expert HVAC system maintenance and repair services, including:

• A/C Installations

• Annual HVAC Repairs

• Furnace Installation

• Heating Services

HVAC Maintenance and Repairs

We understand how important it is to maintain home comfort throughout the winter months, so we inspect your entire system regularly and provide accurate estimates. Contact us today to learn more about our services! Call us at (970) 447-4151 today.

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