The global market for residential HVAC is expected to grow by a staggering $16.97 billion between 2020 and 2024. It’s easy to see why more people around the world are investing in heating systems. In recent years, changing climatic conditions and the demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems have contributed to the sector’s growth.
Your home’s HVAC system is among the most important investments you have. With winter approaching, the condition of your heating system is particularly essential.
If your home heating system is relatively young and well maintained, then you have nothing to worry about during the cold season. But if the following is true about your home heater, then it’s probably time to start shopping for a new home heating system.
1. Your HVAC System Is Old
The typical furnace has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. The older the heater systems become, the less efficient they are.
If your current HVAC is over ten years old, then it’s probably time to begin thinking of a modern unit. The great thing with newer HVAC systems is that they come with a ton of new features and are more energy-efficient.
2. Recurring Services and Repairs
Regular maintenance is a normal part of owning an HVAC system. Actually, proper maintenance can help boost the system’s functional efficiency and reduce its energy consumption by up to 20 percent.
That said, your home’s heating system shouldn’t demand frequent servicing and repairs to function well. That’s both expensive and inconvenient. If you have to call a professional every few months to fix an issue with your HVAC, it’s time to get a new one.
3. Your System Makes Unusual Noise
Your home’s heating system should operate either quietly or with relatively quiet sounds. If your furnace sounds like it’s possessed whenever you turn it on, then something’s seriously wrong. It’s even worse when these strange sounds occur after the system has been serviced multiple times.
Squealing and grinding sounds signify a problem with your system’s components. If you hear screeching, chances are that the motor-bearing has issues. Loud banging or rattling could indicate components have become loose, disconnected, or broken.
Strange sounds are among the common furnace problems that require urgent professional attention. Depending on the extent of the issue, it may be smart to replace the unit altogether.
4. Escalating Energy Bills
If your power bills keep increasing even after doing everything to make your home energy efficient, you may want to get your HVAC system checked. Sure, the seasons might have changed, but your energy bill shouldn’t dramatically increase for the same month from year to year.
Hopefully, the problem will require only cleaning or some quick maintenance tasks. But if the bills still keep going up after servicing, a more permanent solution would be to replace the heating system altogether.
5. Your Home Is No Longer as Comfortable
The primary purpose of your furnace is to keep your home comfortable during the cold season. If your furnace is no longer providing enough warmth, then it’s no use. Get a reputable HVAC contractor to inspect the system.
There are many possible culprits when your HVAC isn’t heating your indoor space as it should. There could be severe motor damage, or the ducts may be cracked. Other causes of temperature inconsistencies include clogged air filters, filthy evaporator coils, or worn out loose belts.
Depending on the nature of the issue, your furnace technician may advise replacing the unit altogether.
6. There Are Odd Smells Coming From Your Vents
If you smell unusual odors when running your HVAC system, then something is wrong. Strange smells from your vents could signify a variety of things, but the important thing is to get the system checked right away.
The nature of the smell can give you an idea of what may be going on. For instance, a musty order often means you may have mold growth inside your HVAC system. A burning smell is usually caused by an overheating motor, wiring problems, or some other mechanical issues.
If you smell a pungent odor, it means the condensate drain pans are clogged. It could also mean the evaporator coils are dirty.
The smell of gunpowder means a burned circuit board or fan motor. If your furnace is producing the smell of rotten eggs, then your system could be leaking gas.
With proper servicing, issues with strange odors from your furnace should go away. But if they persist, consider replacing the system altogether.
7. Your Indoor Air Quality Is Poor
Another clear indication that your furnace is due for replacement is when your indoor air quality (IAQ) is declining. Having clean, safe air in your home is critical. It’s even much more important than a warm living space.
If your indoor air quality does not improve after your HVAC has been serviced, consider getting a new one right away. If you don’t, you risk serious respiratory issues, including chronic lung illnesses such as asthma.
Some signs of poor air quality include humidity problems. Excessive humidity can cause mold and mildew growth, which can trigger health issues. Dust build-up on home surfaces and around vents are also signs of poor air quality.
8. Your Furnace Doesn’t Cycle Properly
A furnace should cycle on and off when operating normally. As soon as the temperature in your home is below the figure you’ve set on the thermostat, the furnace should instantly kick on to bring it up again. Once the temperature has reached the set figure, it should turn off.
If your furnace’s operation doesn’t follow the pattern it should, then that’s a sign of trouble.
Know When to Replace Your Home’s Heating System
An old or damaged heating system can bring you more trouble than benefits. It could mean frequent and expensive repairs, higher energy bills, unhealthy air, and less comfort. Often, the best solution is to replace the system altogether.
Are you interested in reliable and affordable home heating solutions? Please contact us today.