When Is the Best Time to Replace an HVAC System?

What Are the Signs Your HVAC System Is Nearing the End of Its Life?

If your HVAC system is no longer regulating air temperature correctly or efficiently, it may be a sign that it needs to be replaced. HVAC, which stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, is the system in your home that manages the air temperature and quality. It consists of several parts, including:

• Air conditioner: Cools down the air in your home during the summer months.
• Air handler: Assists with circulating and filtering air in the home.
• Ductwork: System of pipes that circulates cool or warm air throughout your house.
• Filters: Removes allergens and other particles from the air.
• Furnace or boiler: Creates the heated air that is circulated through your home.
• Heat pumps: Remove hot air from your home in summer and bring in hot air from the outside in the winter.
• Humidity control: Keeps your home’s air at the right humidity levels.
• Thermostat: What you use to control your HVAC system.
• Ventilation System: Combination of ductwork, filters, and fans that keeps air clean and circulating throughout your home.

There are several types of HVAC systems to choose from. The most common types of HVAC systems include:

• Split system with an indoor furnace or boiler and outdoor units for heating and cooling.
• Hybrid split systems combine a heat pump and a furnace.
• A packaged system where all the system’s components for heating and cooling are contained in the same container.
• The ductless mini-split system provides heated and cooled air without the use of ductwork.

Just like any other appliance in your home, unfortunately, your HVAC system will not last forever. It can sometimes be challenging to determine if your HVAC system needs to be replaced. Some signs that you may soon need HVAC replacement services include:

• Age: Most HVAC systems last for 10 to 20 years—the older your system is, the more prone it will be to having issues.
• Unexplained High Energy Bill: As your HVAC system ages, it will stop working as efficiently as it should, which can result in higher energy bills.
• Weak Airflow: Are you not feeling enough air coming out of the vents inside your home?
• Wrong Temperatures: Is your HVAC system blowing hot air when you have the A/C on or cold air when you have the heat on?
• Strange Odors or Noises: A properly functioning HVAC system should not produce any loud banging or rattling noises when operating, and it should not emit any odd, musty smells inside the home.
• Humidity Issues: Is your system maintaining the proper humidity level in your home year-round?
• Leaks: Signs of refrigerant or condensation leaks around the HVAC system indicate that it’s time to consider upgrading to a new system.
• Constant Repairs: If you’re constantly calling for HVAC repair services, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new system.

Will Replacing Your HVAC System Lower Your Energy Bills?

Generally speaking, a new HVAC system should help you lower your energy bills slightly. This is because it will utilize the latest energy efficiency technologies available today. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading to a new HVAC system can reduce your energy usage and your monthly energy bill by 20-50%.

How can it make such a significant impact? That’s because today’s HVAC systems are built to meet several energy efficiency ratings, including:

• AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) for furnaces
• HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) for the heat pumps
• SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio for the air conditioner

Additionally, many modern HVAC systems are Energy Star certified. This means they meet the strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the EPA, upgrading your HVAC system to one that is Energy Star certified can result in savings of 10-30% on your annual energy bill.

Any new HVAC system you purchase through replacement services will help lower your energy bill through:

• Improved energy efficiency
• Lower required run times
• Smart thermostats for better system control
• There is no need for repairs when on a maintenance schedule

What’s the Average Lifespan of an HVAC System by Type?

On average, a home’s HVAC system can last between 10 and 20 years if properly maintained. This is true for all types of systems, including split systems, hybrid split systems, packaged systems, and ductless mini-split systems.

When examining the individual components of an HVAC system, some parts last longer than others. For example:

• Boilers can keep running for between 20 and 30 years.
• Central air conditioning may last between 15 and 20 years.
• Furnaces can last between 15 and 20 years.
• Ductwork can last for up to 50 years when properly maintained.
• Heat pumps typically last between 10 and 15 years.
• Thermostats generally last for about 10 years.

HVAC System Maintenance Tips

To get the most out of your new HVAC system, it’s essential to establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep the system in optimal condition.

Professional HVAC maintenance should be performed twice a year—once in the spring to prepare the system for summer and once in the fall to prepare it for winter.

In addition to professional maintenance, homeowners can take several steps year-round to keep their HVAC system running efficiently and help it last for many years. These include:

• Regularly changing or cleaning air filters
• Keep all air vents clean
• Remove any debris away from the outdoor unit.
• Seal air leaks around windows and doors
• Make sure your thermostat is working properly