When was the last time you gave any thought to your home or office HVAC setup? While it may not be at the top of your “things to ponder” list on a daily basis, how are your air conditioning and heating system working these days? Daily use, wear and tear, and the passage of time all play a part in the efficiency of any equipment. The average HVAC setup lasts 10-15 years, sometimes longer if it’s been cared for properly.
Repairs and ongoing maintenance can certainly help extend the life of an HVAC system, but eventually, it’ll be time to look into a replacement. Read on as we share a few things to look into that will help determine if that time has come.
Poor Air Quality
If you notice mildew, mold, abnormal humidity levels, and more dust than usual, your AC is probably in need of attention. Funny smells may be a sign that mildew and mold are growing in the AC’s evaporator coil. Musty and stale scents in your home or office are tell-tale signs that the air conditioner’s condensate drain is malfunctioning. This leads to mold invading your space via the ductwork, spreading spores which lead to health issues.
High Energy Bills
If your utility bills have recently skyrocketed, your HVAC setup may be worn out and in need of repair or replacement. In time, neglected HVAC components lead to a system that strains and is completely inefficient. Unusually high energy bills are a clear sign that something has gone awry. Note this when speaking to a technician, so they can look into what’s causing this issue. The newest HVAC technology is designed to efficiently heat and cool your space, while keeping monthly costs down.
Strange Sounds
A properly maintained HVAC system will run very quietly, but as time passes and components wear out, things may get a bit noisy. You might hear scraping, wheezing, and grinding sounds, for example. If you notice sounds like this coming from your HVAC, reach out for service as soon as possible to prevent major issues.
How old is your HVAC system?
Although an HVAC setup can last 10-15 years if properly maintained, eventually equipment just needs to be upgraded. While repairs and ongoing maintenance can help to keep things going, sometimes a bandage (so to speak) is not enough. The latest HVAC technology and design advances produce newer, more efficient heating and cooling systems. Purchasing a setup that is up to date will ensure that your home or office is safe, providing your family, loved ones, or coworkers with a healthy environment. Furthermore, a new system keeps things properly heated and cooled, while keeping energy bills at bay. Take a look at your AC and heating units—there should be a label indicating the installation date. If not, don’t fret—a technician can easily gauge your system’s age once she or he inspects it.
If you’ve noticed any odd behavior, sounds, or scents coming from your HVAC system, contact Taylor. Our team of certified technicians is always happy to answer your questions.
Taylor Heating & AC has been serving Puyallup, Graham, Eatonville, Spanaway, Tacoma, and surrounding areas in Washington since 1984. We look forward to helping you with all of your heating and cooling needs!
