Signs Your HVAC Systems Need to Be Replaced
Residents of Austin, TX, know what it is to be hot. With an average top temperature of 98 degrees in August, Austin’s summers can be a bit overwhelming. This is especially true if you haven’t had an HVAC replacement in a while.
Before we discuss the signs that you need an HVAC replacement, let’s go over the system’s function and its relationship to your air conditioner.
HVAC 101
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, and without this system, your home would be far less comfortable. The HVAC system is responsible for both heating and cooling the air within the home. This dual nature means that problems with either system can call for HVAC repairs.
Your HVAC system works with an air conditioner for cooling. The AC unit sits outside and cools the air that it brings into the house. Heated air, on the other hand, is produced by the furnace within the system.
Whether the air is heated or cooled, it is then sent throughout the ductwork into all parts of the home. All of this is controlled by the thermostat, which in some cases can regulate humidity as well. If you are experiencing a problem with the hot air feature of your HVAC, it could be the thermostat or the system itself.
If the problem is with the cool air, it might be an issue with the thermostat, the HVAC system, or the air conditioning unit (which would indicate that it’s time for an AC tune-up).
If you suspect you might be due for an HVAC replacement, look over the following list of trouble signs and get in touch with an HVAC contractor if you are experiencing any of the red flags mentioned below:
Your Utility Bills are Higher than Normal
As of November 2020, the average monthly electric bill in Texas was $133. That’s a decent amount of money to keep your house comfortable! When the HVAC stops working optimally, it requires extra energy to get the job done. This overwork can lead to a rise in your electric bill as you try to keep your house temperatures comfortable.
Make some comparisons with previous years’ payments. If you are spending more than normal on your power, it might be time to look into a new HVAC or AC installation.
You Can’t Keep Your House at a Consistent Temperature
Another sign of a failing HVAC is inconsistent temperatures throughout the house. If you have the thermostat set for one temperature in every room, then it should not feel colder or warmer in some parts of the house than in others.
The AC Unit No Longer Turns On or Off
Hopefully, you will have invested in some AC repairs before you find yourself at this point, but if your AC won’t turn on, it is time to have a professional take a look! The problem could be a bad air filter, coils that need to be cleaned, a glitch in the thermostat or electrical switch, or any number of other issues.
Or you might need to replace the HVAC system altogether.
On the flip side, if your AC stays on all of the time and doesn’t turn off, it may also be time for a replacement. Have your HVAC contractors take a look and get their professional advice on whether to repair or replace the system.
You are Frequently Getting HVAC Repairs Done
If your HVAC system is getting old or just has had a lot of problems, you probably will need to have repairs done more often than you used to. However, if the repairs are needed often, it’s likely time for a replacement. This approach will save you the time and money you are investing in keeping your current system alive.
Your HVAC System Is Outdated
Most HVAC systems last 10 to 15 years. If yours is in that range, and especially if it is older than that, chances are it’s time for a new HVAC installation. This strategy will help you to avoid more frequent repairs or the system failing altogether.
Another thing to keep in mind with older HVAC systems is that some of them use R22 freon, which is no longer being used for HVAC. Freon is poisonous, and if it leaks out of the unit, it can cause serious harm. Removing freon from the home is one reason many people choose HVAC installation.
The Thermostat No Longer Works Properly
The thermostat and the HVAC units need to be communicating effectively in order for your system to work well. If the thermostat stops functioning, the problem might be with the system itself. It could be a simple fix, or you may need to replace the entire system.
Strange Smells are Coming From the System
You shouldn’t ever notice strange smells from the air vents in your home. If you do, there is likely a problem somewhere in the HVAC system. These smells could be a sign that it needs to be replaced.
Wrong Temperature from the System
If the air from your vents is the wrong temperature, the problem might either be the thermostat or the HVAC system itself. Make sure to have both checked and repaired or replaced as necessary.
Humidity Is not Being Lowered
The HVAC and air conditioner work together to lower the humidity in your home. If this function isn’t working, the sticky Austin air will make sure to let you know! It might be a simple repair, but it could also be a sign that it is time for a replacement.
Unexpected Noises from the System
If you start hearing any unexpected noises from your HVAC system, it’s time to have it checked out.
Not Enough Air Coming from the System Vents
Sometimes a failing system will stop sending enough air through the vents. If you notice yours doing this, contact your HVAC contractors right away for repairs or a replacement.
What to Do When Your HVAC System Needs to Be Repaired or Replaced
Whether it’s your AC or your furnace that’s malfunctioning, you should take steps to address the problem.
For Air Conditioning Services
Your AC unit needs regular maintenance to function at its best. If this isn’t done, you might experience a premature failure of the system. To avoid this, make sure to have some basic care done regularly by a trained professional:
- Get the coils cleaned
- Get the coil fins straightened
- Get the unit cleaned
- Have the air filter replaced
- Make sure the thermostat is calibrated
- Have refrigerant levels checked
When these things are done regularly, you are much less likely to need to replace your AC. However, replacements are often a good idea, even if you could get by without one for a bit longer. A new AC unit will
- Be more efficient than the old unit, saving you money
- Give you an extra 5 to 10 years before needing repairs
- Be an opportunity to upgrade your current system
When it does come time for a replacement, contact Airsheen Services for professional help!
What the AC Replacement Process Will Look Like
The replacement process for an air conditioner can be a bit more involved than you might think. Before purchasing a new system, you will need to have a technician come to your home to inspect your current system, discuss your options, and give you a proposal for a new system.
Because newer AC units are often larger, quieter, and more efficient than older ones, expect to pay accordingly. The initial investment will usually be offset by lower utility costs after the replacement happens.
This first meeting can also give you a better idea of exactly what you need (whether you need an entirely new system or mini-splits for smaller areas, whether you need a larger system to cover more rooms, etc.)
After the first meeting with a tech, the installation team will come to your home to replace the old system for you. They will start by using a recovery machine to safely remove the refrigerant from your old AC. After this has been done, they will disconnect the wiring from the AC unit.
Once everything has been disconnected and prepped, the new AC condenser will be set on the prepared pad and all of the lines and wires attached to it. This step can be a very involved process since everything must be leak-free and properly fitted.
It is always important to hire skilled professionals for the installation. If anything gets damaged in the process, it needs to be quickly assessed and, if necessary, replaced. A damaged system can cause serious problems in the future.
For Heating Services
Your HVAC system carries a heavy load with cooling during the summers and heating during the winters. It is important to make sure the entire system is working properly. Airsheen Services specializes in all things HVAC for Austin, Texas. Whether it’s heating or cooling, we are here to help!
How to Stay Ahead of Your HVAC Needs
Get in touch with us to learn how you can keep your HVAC system functioning at its best.
We offer a Preferred Comfort Club Membership to assure that regular preventative maintenance of your heating and cooling system will not be overlooked or forgotten, saving you both time and money.
To learn more, contact us today!