An HVAC unit consumes a lot of energy and can cost thousands to replace if it fails. It’s important to deal with minor problems before they escalate into expensive ones.
An AC unit that constantly runs is a sign of faulty thermostat settings, dirty air filters, or obstructed ductwork that reduces airflow. A qualified professional will help you troubleshoot the problem.
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Repairs
An HVAC technician can perform a number of repairs to help your system continue to operate as it should. However, if your system is older and continues to break down, it may be more cost-effective to consider replacement.
An AC technician can conduct a few tests to help you decide whether or not it’s time for an upgrade. One test involves calculating the total repair costs over the unit’s lifetime. If this amount exceeds the cost of a new unit, it’s likely time to invest in a replacement.
Another important indicator that it’s time to replace your air conditioning system is a high energy bill, even when the air conditioner is operating properly. This can be due to a broken thermostat switch or leaks in the ductwork. In either case, it’s worth scheduling an inspection with an HVAC professional to determine what the problem is.
If your air conditioning system is turning on but not cooling, the culprit could be a clogged condenser coil. The coil is responsible for removing heat from your home’s air, so when it becomes frozen, the system can no longer run properly. If you suspect this is the case, turn off your air conditioner and use a fan to move the ice away from the coil. After a few hours, the ice should be completely thawed, and you can turn the system back on.
The evaporator coil can also become frozen, which can cause the air conditioner to stop working altogether. This can be caused by poor airflow, such as a dirty air filter or blocked return air vents. Ensure the air filters are clean, double-check the thermostat settings, and check the fuses to rule out a power outage or blown fuse as the cause of this issue.
Finally, a faulty compressor can be the result of a bad capacitor or low refrigerant levels. Again, this problem can be resolved by replacing the air filter and checking the thermostat settings, but if these steps don’t resolve the issue, it might be necessary to call an HVAC professional for a compressor repair.
Replacement
The average HVAC unit lasts between 15 and 20 years, so once yours reaches this age, it’s time to consider replacing it. A new unit is more energy-efficient than older models, which means that you’ll save money on your utility bills in the long run. However, the cost of a replacement is a big consideration, so you need to determine whether it’s worth the upfront expense.
When deciding whether to repair or replace your unit, ask a professional for advice. They will be able to give you extensive details about the problem and help you decide which option is best. Reputable companies should provide an honest assessment and recommend the most practical course of action.
If your HVAC unit is old, there are several telltale signs that it’s time to invest in a new system. These include expensive repair bills, inefficient operation, and odd smells. Odd smells can be caused by a number of things, including mold or mildew. However, they can also be a sign of an electrical fire or worn-down parts.
Another sign that it’s time to replace your HVAC unit is a high electric bill. Although these bills can vary by season, a homeowner should see consistent, significant changes over the course of a year or more. If you’re paying more than 30 percent of your previous monthly utility bill, it’s probably time to consider a replacement.
One of the most important reasons to invest in a new HVAC system is energy efficiency. Older units are less efficient than their newer counterparts due to wear and tear and because they were built with outdated technologies. New units are designed with more efficient cooling systems, meaning that you’ll save money on your energy bills in the long run.
One of the most serious issues that can arise from an old HVAC unit is carbon monoxide poisoning. This dangerous gas can leak from cracked heat exchangers, so it’s essential that you have your unit replaced immediately if you suspect this issue. A new, more effective unit will be able to reduce the amount of carbon monoxide in your home by sealing leaks and insulating your house properly.
Maintenance
Performing regular maintenance on HVAC equipment will help it last longer, reduce energy costs, and prevent the need for HVAC repairs. A qualified technician can perform the necessary tasks that will keep your heating and cooling system running smoothly, including cleaning coils, changing filters, and repairing minor problems. In addition to routine maintenance, a professional can also seal leaks, properly insulate ductwork, and check airflow.
A dirty filter can impede airflow, causing your system to work harder and increasing energy costs. Change your filters as directed by the manufacturer to avoid clogs and excessive wear and tear on the unit.
If you notice a strange odor when your system comes on, this may indicate a problem with the evaporator drain line. This is the pipe that allows condensation resulting from the refrigeration cycle to be expelled. This can get clogged with algae and mold, which will cause a bad smell in your home. This can also cause flooding or, if equipped with a drain float, cause your unit to shut off until the drain is unplugged.
Another sign that your HVAC unit needs servicing is if it makes unusual noises when it turns on. This may be a sign that there is a loose fan blade, a broken or bent blower wheel, a low refrigerant, or an electrical issue that requires expert attention.
Other signs that your unit is in need of repair are if the system doesn’t cool or if there are odd water spots on the floor, walls, or ceiling. Leaks, a faulty compressor, or a damaged fan motor can cause water spots. This is a problem that can be very dangerous and should only be fixed by a qualified service technician.
It is important to consider the age of your system when determining whether or not it is worth spending money on a repair or replacement. If your unit is less than 10 years old, a repair might be the better option. If your system is more than 13 years old, you should consider replacing it. A new, high-efficiency system will save you money in the long run, especially if your current unit is not energy-efficient.
Inspection
When it comes to repairing or replacing an HVAC unit, many factors must be taken into consideration. A technician will perform an inspection to ensure that all components are working as they should and that there are no safety concerns. During an inspection, the technician will look at the air filter, refrigerant level, drain pans, evaporator and condenser coils, fan blades, and electrical components. Keeping up with regular inspections helps prevent small problems from becoming big ones, which in turn saves energy and keeps the system running at its peak efficiency.
Often, there are simple solutions for issues that may arise, such as low refrigerant, a bent fan blade, or electrical noise. In other cases, the problem may be something more serious, like a leak or a dirty evaporator coil, and these would require professional attention.
The age of the equipment is another factor that must be taken into account. HVAC systems tend to wear out after about a decade of use, but with proper maintenance and timely repairs, they can last longer. Many experts recommend a replacement at this point, but it’s important to understand what the actual cost of replacing the equipment will be so that homeowners can make an informed decision.
During an inspection, a technician will also check to see that the unit was properly installed and that there are no major issues with it. This can help avoid a costly repair bill in the future and ensure that any built-in safety features are working properly. An inspector will also make sure that all ducts are properly fitted and sealed, which can reduce energy costs.
It’s also a good idea to keep up with annual maintenance, as this can prevent the need for costly repairs and save energy bills. Many contractors offer maintenance plans that include routine inspections, discounted repairs, and priority scheduling.
Homeowners who are concerned about a noisy system should shut off their system’s power, remove any debris from around the unit, and clean the fins and evaporator coils to prevent further damage. It’s also a good idea to move the unit away from any places where people gather, as this can decrease the amount of noise generated.
