Most homeowners don’t pay much attention to their HVAC system until it breaks down. A malfunctioning HVAC system can cause an uncomfortable environment during the summer and winter months. However, repairs and proper maintenance can help keep your system running all year round. However, some situations call for an HVAC system upgrade.
Here are common signs that you need to upgrade your HVAC system.
1. Utility Bills Keep Rising
Utility bills change throughout the year depending on the season. For instance, your utility bill may rise in the peak of summer when your air conditioning system needs to use a lot of energy to cool your home. But your utility bills should remain fairly constant. An aging or malfunctioning HVAC system can cause a sudden spike in utility bills.
If your utility bill in a specific month is higher than what they were for the same month in previous years, ask a technician to inspect your HVAC system. Extensive repairs might be necessary, or the expert might recommend a complete system replacement.
2. Uneven Temperatures Occurring Throughout the Home
Uneven temperatures are a sign of short cycling in your HVAC system. Short cycling is when your HVAC system quickly attains the correct temperatures so quickly and then turns off. While the temperature will be comfortable, the high humidity will remain and make your house feel warmer in some parts than others.
The solution might be to get a new air conditioning system that can prevent temperature swings. A check should be made of your ductwork to determine if it’s correctly handling cold and warm air that enters individual rooms in your home.
3. Running Time Is Increasing
A new HVAC system will start up at specific intervals to warm or cool your home. The new system also takes a short period to attain the desired temperature. However, as the HVAC system gets older, the blower motor and coils will start to fail, increasing the running time. The HVAC system can also fail to generate and distribute enough warm air in your home.
4. Loud Noises Coming From the Unit
HVAC systems often produce various noises due to the moving components within the unit. But if the blower suddenly begins to hum louder and the furnace is banging and groaning, a system replacement is imminent. You might also notice that the HVAC system produces noise before starting up, and even the outdoor unit produces more noise. Noises from the HVAC unit can indicate loose parts or problems with the blowers, motors, and fans.
5. Foul Smells Emanating From Your HVAC
Mildew or mold growing inside the HVAC system can lead to musty smells, particularly if plants grow in the ventilation ductwork. A major HVAC malfunction can also lead to a smell that resembles the melting of plastic or burning metal. The foul odors may also be a sign of motor malfunctioning or burned-out wiring.
6. HVAC Is Leaking
As the HVAC system works to produce cool air, condensation might accumulate on the unit, and this is perfectly normal. However, you might realize the HVAC system is experiencing leaks or heavy drainage. One common cause of HVAC leaks is an overflowing drip pan. Problems with the refrigerant can also cause leaks and lead to your unit overheating.
7. Vents Are Blowing Out Insufficient Air
When you turn on the HVAC system, sufficient air is supposed to emanate from the vents. A failing compressor can cause the HVAC unit to produce weak and insufficient airflow.
If your HVAC system is failing or malfunctioning, call the experts at Nova Air Conditioning & Heating to inspect your system and find the cause of the problem. We do HVAC installation repairs, replacement, and maintenance. Contact us today for a quote.
