Winter is an excellent time of year for greater Atlanta homeowners to think about ways in which to improve home performance. Many enjoy the cooler weather this time of year brings, as it allows them to prepare for the heat of summer. Some will remember difficulties keeping the home cool last summer, and if this is true for you, the answer may be found in upgrading your HVAC system.
How exactly can you tell if it’s time to upgrade your home’s air conditioner?
Warning Sign #1: Age
In many ways, an HVAC system is kind of like a car. When you buy it new and drive it off the lot, that “new car feel” seems like it could last forever. Obviously, this isn’t how things usually go, as repairs and maintenance are crucial to keeping the vehicle on the road year after year.
Even the most well-maintained vehicles will eventually need to be retired, and the same can be said for an air conditioning system. Air conditioners typically need to be replaced after 10-15 years, so it’s often possible to tell whether or not it's time for an upgrade based solely on the system’s age.
Warning Sign #2: Increased Energy Costs
Have you noticed that your energy bill is on the rise with each passing summer, yet you're not running extra equipment? This can often be a sign that something isn’t running as efficiently as it used to, and in many cases, heating and cooling systems can serve as the culprit. Having the unit inspected is a good way to determine if it’s the cause behind your energy bill increase and can also serve to isolate any other issues that might be occurring.
Warning Sign #3: Odd Noises or Smells
A general rule of thumb with heating and cooling systems is that you shouldn’t necessarily notice that they’re operating. An AC that either smells strange or has started to emit odd noises is one that simply isn’t working correctly.
Rather than allowing these types of problems to fester, it’s best to immediately schedule maintenance and see what the issue is. In some cases, upgrading to a new system may be the best solution.
Warning Sign #4: An Uncomfortable Home
Many homeowners know what it’s like to blast the AC on the hottest day of the year, all the while never being able to make certain rooms comfortable. It could be a lack of air sealing and insulation that’s causing the problem, but it could also be that your AC is either sized incorrectly or no longer working properly. Either way, servicing or upgrading your air conditioner will fix the problem in most cases.
Ready to boost home comfort and reduce your energy bills? We’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about upgrading your HVAC systems.