Thinking about whether or not you should replace an older HVAC system? HVAC replacement is an investment and we know that even thinking about buying a new system can be overwhelming. At Dolphin Cooling, we believe in making sure our clients are just as comfortable with their decisions to replace their older system as they will be in a home with a consistently comfortable temperature. In SWFL, an air conditioner is a must-have and we know you get nervous when you suspect something is wrong with yours. Losing cold air in your home in this FL heat is not fun and preventing a major breakdown is important.
Depending on what’s going on with your HVAC unit, it may be time to replace your older unit, but it may not. You should weigh your options and figure out if your current cooling costs are too high and if a new unit will save you money in the long run. Let’s look at the reasons it might be time to replace that old unit and the benefits of doing so.
Check out these 9 reasons why someone might want to consider replacing an old HVAC system and decide for yourself if it’s time for a new unit.
9 Reasons to Replace an Older HVAC System
1. High humidity levels in your home
Humidity issues can be a matter of cleaning coils or correcting thermostat issues, but they can also mean your cooling system is on its last leg. An old system just won’t be able to do the job of humidifying the way it should. This can cause air to be too dry in the winter or humid in the summer.
2. Your home temperature is not consistent and comfortable
Inconsistent temperatures throughout your home could mean issues that have low repair costs, but it could also mean that you have a larger issue. An HVAC technician can tell you if your AC unit is too big or too small for your home, both of which will cause inconsistent temperatures.
3. Noisy HVAC system
Just like anything else mechanical, AC systems get older and run less smoothly as they age. With that progression, noises will start occurring and will continue to get worse as time goes on. At some point, in combination with some of the other issues on this list, it will be too much and need to be replaced.
4. Refrigerant leaks
HVAC systems do not lose refrigerant unless there is a leak. Leaks happen sometimes under certain conditions or after damage to your AC, but frequent leaks can be a sign that it’s time to upgrade your HVAC equipment.
5. Risk for electrical issues
The older your system gets, the more likely it could experience wiring issues like electrical shortage which can cause the system to fail. Proper maintenance can help prevent electrical issues, but it’s not 100% preventable. If you notice an odd smell like something is burning coming from your current system, you want to call in the HVAC professionals and probably consider a replacement.
6. Requires frequent repairs
As time goes on you will notice that your AC requires more maintenance services and repairs. As the age of the unit climbs, so will the cost of repairs. Frequent HVAC repair is a good sign that you need a new HVAC unit.
7. Major breakdown
If you have a major breakdown that will be expensive to fix, it might be a good idea to go ahead and replace it with a new air conditioner.
8. Rising electric bills
An old air conditioner is just not as efficient as a new unit. Energy costs will eventually start rising as your unit ages. If your utility bills are very high regardless of regular maintenance, it may be best to replace your old HVAC unit.
9. Age of your system
Age isn’t necessarily a deciding factor when it comes to it being time to replace your ac unit. But if your air conditioning unit is more than 10 years old and is having consistent issues like those mentioned above, then age is definitely a consideration. The average lifespan of an HVAC system can be anywhere from 10-25 years but the number of years a unit lasts varies and depends on several things. The type of system, how well it’s maintained, and how hard it has to work consistently are three of the biggest contributing factors to the lifespan of an HVAC unit. Here in SWFL, our ACs work hard year-round and that has an impact on how long they last.
Benefits of Replacing an Old HVAC System
Some of the benefits of replacing older HVAC systems are obvious, others aren’t well known. HVAC units are the most expensive appliance in your home and we all know we don’t want to go without them in SWFL, but there are more benefits than just cool air when it comes to an efficiently functional air conditioning unit. The following are the biggest benefits of replacing your old cooling and heating system.
Improved Energy Efficiency with a new HVAC system
Older HVAC systems are not as energy efficient as modern systems, which can reduce energy bills. This can sometimes majorly offset the costs of a newer unit by saving you a considerable amount of money every month on energy costs. New air conditioning units have higher efficiency ratings, which are required by law. That means any unit you get these days will be energy efficient and your energy use will probably be drastically reduced compared to your old unit.
Improved Comfort with a newer HVAC system
Everything gets old and doesn’t work the same as it did when it was newer. Newer systems are more effective at regulating temperatures and maintaining consistent comfort levels, which is important for feeling comfortable in your home. Regulated temperate also reduces humidity in the summer and maintains warmth in the winter. Humidity can cause a lot of issues in your home from mold and mildew in places you can’t even see to health issues for you and your family.
Improved Air Quality when you replace an older HVAC system
Newer HVAC systems are designed to filter and purify air better than older units, reducing allergens and other air contaminants. Indoor air quality is a very important thing to consider since our indoor air quality can be more of an issue than outdoor air quality. Poor air quality in your home can lead to illness or exasperate existing illnesses and allergies.
Lower Maintenance Costs after you replace an older HVAC system
As systems age, they require more frequent maintenance and repairs, which can be costly. By replacing an older HVAC system, you can reduce the amount of money you spend on maintenance. This is another thing to consider when you’re weighing the pros and cons of upgrading because eliminating the cost of regular maintenance can offset the price of the new unit.
Improved Home Value when you replace older HVAC systems
Replacing an outdated HVAC system with a newer, more efficient system can add value to your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers. If you are considering selling your home in the next few years, purchasing a new HVAC system is a great way to make your home more appealing to buyers. If you think you’ll stay put for the next 10-15 years, that’s also a good reason to purchase now, that way you save money for those years to come.
You can learn more about knowing when it’s time to replace your HVAC unit here.
Get a Free Estimate to Replace Older HVAC System
Replacing your entire HVAC system or even just your AC unit is a big expense. The best way to start the decision-making process is to get all the information needed to weigh the pros and cons. If you’re having any of the above issues with your HVAC unit or it’s getting up there in age and you want to be prepared, our techs at Dolphin Cooling and Heating would be glad to come out and inspect your current unit.
Our licensed and highly trained HVAC technicians will look over your current setup and review their recommendations with you. We want to help you make the decision that is right for you and we keep your circumstances, concerns, and preferences in mind when making our recommendations.
If you’re looking for an HVAC contractor you can rely on, Dolphin Cooling and Heating is the one for the job! To schedule your free estimate, call Dolphin Cooling and Heating at (239) 596-9055 or request an appointment online.