bristol tn hvac companies

When your HVAC system is working well, you hardly notice it at all. However, once a heating or cooling system starts to develop minor problems, they can be all you think about. Ignoring them they can quickly turn into more serious – and expensive – issues. The good news is that there are telltale signs that will give you a hint that your system is in trouble and whether an HVAC system needs to be replaced. In this guide, we’ll go through everything you need to know in order to make the right decision when considering HVAC replacement.

It’s more than 10 years old

First and foremost, how old is your HVAC system? If it’s over ten years old, industry averages say trouble likely awaits.  After a decade, your air conditioner is less efficient than when it was new, and your heat pump is more susceptible to breaking down. That leaves you with two clear choices – repair your old units or get a new, modern and more energy efficient upgrade. The major bonus of buying a new HVAC system is that modern units are typically cheaper to run and use less energy than older ones, meaning your initial outlay may very well pay for itself over the next 10-15 years.

Your energy bills are rising

If you have noticed a sudden spike in your energy usage that lies outside of the usual seasonal changes, there could well be an issue developing in your HVAC system. It’s important to keep a close eye on your bills, and identify any major changes – more usage over the years will mean the problem is just getting worse.  Call an HVAC technician to give your system a full and thorough check before taking the plunge to buy a new one.

Constant repairs

Multiple and repeated calls for HVAC repair is associated with a failing system. If you’re making more and more service calls that result in repairs, and they increase every year, it’s probably time to talk HVAC replacement. Do the math – those short-term costs soon add up, and they are only going to get worse.

With a new, more efficient system, your initial outlay will pay off in the 10-15 years to come.

Weird temperature distribution

If your home is more than one level, and you have only a one-zone system, temperature fluctuation is a completely normal thing. However, if you are noticing significant changes in heat or cooling in different rooms, there may be a problem with your HVAC system. Your best bet is to call out an HVAC technician to take a look.  They’re best suited to determine if the issue is minor, needing something simple like a recalibration of your thermostat, or something more serious like leaking ductwork.

Humidity issues

Does your home feel bone dry in the winter and overly humid in the summer? If so, there could be trouble developing in your ductwork. Humidity irregularities are among the biggest signs that your ductwork could need replacing. That can be costly, messy and time intensive if you decide to do it yourself.

If your HVAC system is approaching a decade old, rely on a qualified technician to check it out.

Excessive dust

Leaky ducts are also responsible for excessive dust production. It happens when the ducts pull particles of dust and air from your attic, crawl spaces and basements into the main areas of your home. Ultimately, your ducts will need to be sealed. A qualified HVAC specialist can advise whether an expensive seal repair job is smartest, or whether replacing your HVAC system completely will provide a more efficient, better alternative that saves money in the long run.

If you are worried about your heating, cooling and HVAC system, call the professionals at Starnes Heating & Cooling.  Our professional and friendly team is here to help and advise you on the best possible next steps. We’re ready to answer your questions about costs, options, time frames and recommendations to repair or replace your unit.  Give us a call at your convenience, or head to our Contact page and send us an email.