So far in 2022, Central Alabama is running 1-3°F hotter than an average year. If you live in the Wetumpka area, it’s predicted that in the years to come the mercury’s going to keep on rising. So now, more than ever, you need to have a fully functioning HVAC system, ready to cool you down at a moment’s notice.
Buying a new HVAC system is a big decision and one we may be inclined to put off. But there comes a point when it’s a false economy to keep an old, inefficient system running any longer.
Let’s take a look at 6 signs that you need an HVAC replacement.
1. It’s More Than Ten Years Old
Sadly, your AC unit is not like a fine wine – it’s not going to get better with age. Most central ACs have an expected lifespan of around ten years.
Any AC unit that is over ten years old will not meet the latest ENERGY STAR efficiency ratings set by the EPA. That means that you’ll be paying more on your electricity bills to run it and you’ll be emitting more carbon pollution.
A new HVAC system will also come with a programmable thermostat. This gives you precision control over your heating and cooling. You won’t waste energy and money heating or cooling parts of the house you’re not using or running the HVAC system when you’re not there.
You can even control some of these systems remotely. There’s no need to worry you’ll go on vacation and leave the AC on full blast anymore!
2. Indoor Air Quality Issues
When your current HVAC installation is on its last legs, you’ll notice that the indoor air quality is not as good as it should be.
First, you’ll probably notice that the air feels more humid. Humidity is uncomfortable for human and animal residents alike. But it can also pose health risks.
Mold and mildew love humidity. If your AC is not bringing down the humidity in the hot Montgomery summer, you’ll soon notice mold developing in your house. Humidity can also damage wooden furniture and floors and cause wallpaper to start to come away from the wall.
Condensation can build up on the windows, which causes further issues. If you notice any of these signs or a dank smell in your house, it’s a sign that it’s time for a new air conditioner.
Older AC units are also less efficient at removing contaminants from the air. If your filters are clean but you’re still getting allergy issues, it’s not dealing with pet dander, dust, and pollen efficiently. An HVAC service and cleaning may help but when the crew arrives they may recommend that it’s time you planned for a new AC unit altogether.
3. Your AC Unit Uses Freon
Freon is a refrigerant that was commonly used in HVAC systems in the past. Now, the government is gradually phasing it out and no new systems can use freon. If your current air conditioner develops a leak and needs topping up, the HVAC repair company must use recycled freon.
This can be costly with refills typically costing hundreds of dollars. Plus, it’s being phased out because R-22 freon is damaging to the ozone layer. So it’s better for your bank account and the planet to choose an air conditioner replacement that uses more environmentally friendly chemicals.
4. It’s Difficult to Regulate the Temperature
Do you find that no matter how much you adjust the thermostat, you can never hit the sweet spot?
In a hot Millbrook summer, you want to enter a home that is refreshingly crisp and dry, in contrast to the sweltering heat outdoors. If you walk in and feel less than satisfied, it may be time to start afresh.
A new AC installation means a more sensitive and efficient HVAC unit. It will be able to get each zone to the temperature you want and hold it there. All of this while using less energy than your old system.
5. It’s Keeping You Awake At Night
No, we’re not talking about nightmares about the cost of an AC unit. We mean that it’s making a hullabaloo when you’re trying to get some shut-eye.
If you hear banging, moaning, grinding, or loud humming, you need to get an AC technician to look at it pronto. It’s possible that it just needs a simple repair. But if the noises persist and are getting worse, it could be that your HVAC system is reaching the end of its natural life.
The cost of an AC unit can sometimes be reduced through federal rebates. There are also financing packages and specials on offer.
Talk to your local HVAC installation company. It might be more cost-effective to get an HVAC replacement than you realized.
6. Energy Bills Are Skyrocketing
Fuel costs are rising both at home and internationally. This means that we’re all paying more for electricity than we were a year ago. But if you’ve noticed that your energy bills are going up much faster than they should be, your HVAC system is probably the culprit.
Heating, water heating, and cooling systems are the biggest energy users in our homes. If your HVAC system is past its expiration date, it’s probably using way more energy than it should be. The savings you make on your energy bills can go some way toward offsetting the upfront cost of a new HVAC system.
Choose Clark Heating, Air Conditioning, and Plumbing for Your New HVAC System
The thought of getting a new HVAC system can be overwhelming. But it can make your home much more comfortable and bring down your monthly energy bills. New HVAC systems are also much kinder to the planet.
At Clark Heating, Air Conditioning, and Plumbing, we take the time to understand your home and your needs before recommending the best new AC unit for you. We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and won’t stop until you’re completely happy with your new air conditioner. We’re proud to serve the Millbrook, Montgomery, Pike Road, Prattville, and Wetumpka, AL areas.
Click here to arrange a free estimate or give us a call at 334-449-7936.
