What Your HVAC System May Be Telling You

Look for these signs that may indicate it’s time for an upgrade:

• Age – a well maintained system can “live” for 15 to 20 years; however, a unit that receives less care typically only lasts 5 to 10 years.  In either case, you should have your system evaluated when it reaches 10 years.
• Noise – loud rattling, squeeling and grinding noises could mean that your unit has seen better days. Whistling is another cause for concern, indicating you may need to replace your filters.
• High energy bills or repair costs – if your system is needing more frequent, more expensive repairs, or your energy bills are skyrocketing, it may be time to upgrade.
• Inefficiency – if your unit runs constantly but does not cool or heat your home, it needs to be examined.

When shopping for a new system, look for these features:

• Energy efficiency – replacing your old furnace or air conditioning unit with energy-efficient models will keep your home comfortable and hold costs down.
• Size – an oversized unit can overwhelm your space with noise and increase your utility bills.  On the other hand, a unit that is too small is going to run constantly always trying to catch up to the appropriate temperature.  Always enlist the help of a qualified HVAC contractor, who will take into account factors such as: size of your home, windows, ducts, as well as insulation levels.

Once your new unit is installed, you can lengthen its lifetime keeping it in tip-top shape by having it serviced regularly and changing your filters on a monthly basis.  Also ensure proper air circulation by keeping furniture away from vents indoors and everything cleared away from outdoor units.