Ideally, your HVAC system should run so smoothly that you don’t even think about it. It should quietly keep your home cool and comfortable during the sweltering summer months without causing stress or concern, and warm during the chilly winters. But when it starts to struggle, the situation can quickly become unpleasant, leaving you to sweat, shiver, and stress about the potential cost of repairs.
If you’re starting to wonder whether it’s time to replace your HVAC system, you’re not alone. Recognizing the signs early can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly fixes. That’s why we’re here to help you determine when a replacement might be the smartest move for your home and peace of mind.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Replace Your HVAC System
No homeowner wants to spend a lot of money replacing an HVAC system before they absolutely have to — we get it! But waiting too long can result in a lot of complications, such as:
- Higher energy bills from poor efficiency
- Poor air quality
- Potential fire hazards from faulty wiring
- Carbon monoxide leaks
- Sudden system failures that leave you without essential heating and cooling when you need it
There are many benefits to replacing your HVAC system that far outweigh the upfront cost when the time comes, so don’t wait!
Five Signs It’s Time for an HVAC Replacement
Rather than waiting on a complete breakdown to replace your HVAC system and being miserable until the job is done, be on the lookout for these five essential warning signs that you need to replace your HVAC system as soon as possible, or have your HVAC inspected by a professional.
1. Your HVAC System is Old
Even the nicest, highest-quality HVAC systems will eventually need to be replaced. Today’s HVAC systems can last as long as 15 to 25 years, but systems manufactured in 2010 or earlier will need to be replaced because the coolant they use (freon or “R-22”) is no longer produced or imported in the United States due to efforts to move toward more ozone-friendly refrigerants.
If you have an older HVAC system that utilizes R-22, it can be converted to a safer agent. However, this repair cost may not be worth it since the unit is likely 15 years old or older and needs an upgrade.
2. Leaks or Heavy Drainage
Water and condensation around the exterior of your HVAC components is normal to an extent, but heavy drainage may be a sign that something isn’t working properly. Leaks inside your home are an even more significant sign of HVAC system issues. When the drainage hose attached to the exterior unit is blocked, water may not be able to drain properly and can get backed up, causing it to overflow and leak down under your unit or into the walls and ceiling.
If there isn’t an issue with your drainage hose, another possibility is that your HVAC’s refrigerant is leaking into the system and causing it to overheat from not having enough coolant. This likely means your HVAC system is ready for replacement.
3. Humidity in the Home
One of the most obvious signs that your HVAC system is close to breaking down is visible humidity in your home. If your home is unusually humid and muggy, it’s worth considering calling someone to take a look at your HVAC system. Your HVAC system is designed to pull humidity from the home, so if you’re experiencing the same humidity levels in your home as you are outside, your system isn’t doing its job properly. If you can visibly see condensation floating around your ceiling, your unit is probably about to stop working and needs to be replaced as soon as possible!
Foul or musty odors may also accompany humidity issues, indicating that the issue has been happening for longer than you realized, and you may have mold or mildew growing in the ventilation ductwork. If the smell is more like burning metal or plastic, it may be a serious HVAC malfunction. In this case, turn off your system and contact a professional immediately to evaluate the issue.
4. Loud or Unfamiliar Noises from HVAC
You should be used to some small level of noise from your furnace and air conditioner as they start up or shut off, but these noises should not be overly loud or disruptive. If your system seems louder than usual, it may be working too hard to get the job done and moving toward burning out. Other unusual sounds, such as loud banging, grinding, or whistling, may be warning signs of a failing HVAC system. Rattling noises may indicate a loose part that needs repair or replacement.
If you’re wary of a strange noise coming from your HVAC system, don’t hesitate to call a professional to have it examined!
5. Air Flow or Temperature Issues
The most simple sign that your HVAC system is ready to be replaced is if it just isn’t working as effectively as it used to! Maybe the airflow is weak despite diligently replacing your filters, or maybe you’re noticing the air isn’t getting as cold or warm as it did previously. If you’re cool when you want to be warm, or warm when you want to be cool, then it’s likely time to replace your HVAC system.
Is It Time to Replace Your HVAC System?
If your HVAC system is being temperamental, you deserve a new one! Rolox Home Service is Kansas City’s trusted name in HVAC repair and replacement. Is your HVAC system exhibiting one or more of the warning signs listed above? Contact us to schedule your free in-home consultation, where we will thoroughly inspect your unit and recommend the best next steps.
