As your HVAC system gets up in age, it becomes more and more likely that it needs to be replaced with a newer model. The question is, when is the right time to make an upgrade? There are many instances where our team can make repairs to your existing system to keep it operating.
You can keep reading to learn more about some of the signs that can indicate it’s time for an HVAC replacement in Federal Way, WA. Then give our team a call to schedule your in-home assessment so we can help you determine the next steps in either repairing or replacing your existing HVAC system.
How Old is Your Current HVAC?
Once your HVAC system is between 10 and 15 years old, it’s time to consider that a replacement is in your future. This 5-year span is when an HVAC system will start to decline. With excellent care, your unit could last for 15 years or maybe a little longer. But if you didn’t keep up with regular maintenance and repairs, you might have to replace the unit closer to the 10-year mark.
Ten years is also the length of most HVAC warranties. After that point, you’re left paying out of pocket for anything that goes wrong. Facing expensive problems can mean a costly repair bill that is upwards of thousands of dollars. That money is better spent upgrading to a brand-new HVAC system instead of trying to keep an older unit running for a little while longer.
Signs of HVAC Problems
It’s also important to pay attention to signs that something is going wrong with the unit. For example, if your HVAC starts to make unusual sounds, especially loud or persistent ones, then it may be time for an upgrade. Sometimes AC problems can be repaired, but other times a complete replacement is called for.
Other signs of HVAC problems include:
- Weak airflow
- Lack of cooling
- Cycles that are very short or very long
- Unusual smells
- Higher than normal humidity
- Increasing energy costs
Weighing the Pros and Cons of HVAC Repairs
There are many times when HVAC repairs make sense. If you call our team for an assessment and the repair costs are reasonable, you should go ahead and make repairs to keep your HVAC running for longer. The problem with HVAC repairs is when they become so expensive that you could put the money toward a new system instead.
We typically recommend spending no more than 50% of the cost of a new HVAC system on any repair needs. No matter what is going on with your HVAC, we can review all of your options with you and offer our expert recommendations based on our years of experience.
Making a pricey repair to an older system may not get you as much more life out of the unit as you would hope. Instead, you may be left replacing your older unit in the near future anyway. This happens because while you may make repairs to certain components, the rest of the HVAC still has wear and tear from aging.
Contact Sound Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. today to schedule an appointment for AC service! We take your comfort as seriously as you do.