Should You Replace Your HVAC or Repair it? A Quick Guide
It is a well-known fact that usually, it is much cheaper to replace something than to repair it. However, there are exceptions to that rule. For instance, when it comes to your HVAC, age is a factor. There will come a point that sinking money into repairs is just wasteful, as the lifecycle is coming to an end.
As a general rule, if you need to spend 50 percent or more to repair something, it isn’t a good investment. Just get a new one.
How do you know that your HVAC is on the way out, or if you can still squeeze some time out of it yet and defer replacement costs? Here are some common problems that you’ll encounter if you need to replace your HVAC.
Your Air Conditioning isn’t Working
To decide if you should replace your air conditioner, the first criterion is how old it is.
Typically an air conditioning unit doesn’t last more than 10-15 years, so if you are within that time frame, you probably shouldn’t spend too much money on repairs.
Other signs that your air conditioner is on its way out? Rising energy bills, loud noises, and foul odors coming from the unit.
Air Quality is Poor
As your HVAC gets older, the air filter and the ductwork stop working effectively. Instead of pulling dander, pollen, and other allergens out of the air, an older HVAC actually pushes them back through air circulation.
If you notice an increase in dust, or if anyone in your household reports worse allergy symptoms, this could be the reason why.
Thermostat is Unreliable
Another telltale sign that your HVAC is on its way out is if your thermostat settings are way off.
Inconsistent heating or cooling is usually the result of your HVAC unit having to work too hard just to try to heat or cool your home. Usually, one or more of your HVAC components is broken.
Another reason that this could be happening is if your HVAC is too small for the size of your home. If it is too small, it simply doesn’t have the power to work effectively.
If you notice that different rooms in your home are warmer or cooler than others, no matter what the thermostat says, just replace it. If you seem to have to repair your HVAC relatively often in your Brookline, MA, just replace it.
