HVAC has become an almost indispensable appliance in every household, given all the extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Just like any other device, it can’t last forever, but it’s not always easy to tell when it’s time for areplacement. Of course, it’s always good to keep your HVAC device well maintained by the professionals, it’s the best way to be sure about its condition. Yet, even that can’t be a certain guarantee, especially if the time between the regular checkups is longer. So here are a few signs that could mean you need a new HVAC.
It’s Blowing Cold or Hot Air regardless Of the Temperature Settings
This is one of the most common problems with older units since they seem to produce hot or cold air flow completely randomly, absolutely not in accordance with its settings. It can occasionally occur that you feel a wave of hot air during the cooling setting, but this is nothing serious. If, however, your HVAC starts running only hot air while it should be cooling, that can mean trouble since it could point to a problem with the compressor. And also vice versa, cool air instead of heating is a sign for alert.
If the room temperatures are inconsistent, i.e. if some rooms in your house become cold spots, while the others don’t get any fresh air, it might signify it’s time for the new unit. If your device is giving out inconsistent air, you need to check valves, filters,and other parts, but also be prepared it could mean time for areplacement.
The Air Flow Is Diminished
Decreased air flow could be another alarming sign. If the device is producing weak air flow and isn’t heating or cooling the room according to its setting, it’s time to start worrying. Try to check the filters first, of course, but once again, be ready for a potential investment in new air conditioning system.
There are numerous things that could be causing this problem, so make sure you consult an expert before you invest in a new HVAC system.
Strange Smells, Noises,and Leakage
If your HVAC is producing strange smells, you should be on alert. It could mean a serious problem. Unpleasant odors can indicate damage in the device’s insulation or mold in the ductworks. This can cause health problems in your house as mold, dirt or mildew from the unit can contaminate the air which is being circled inside. So this is not something to be ignored. Just as in all previous cases, again check the filters first and hope for the best, but if the bad smells persist, be ready to buy a new unit.
Furthermore, your HVAC system should be noiseless. Of course, it can make some small noises while it cycles, but you’ll certainly be used to them and be able to notice if there’s some difference. So if you get something like grinding, grating, screeching, ticking, rattling or buzzing, it’s most probably time for areplacement. If, however, the sounds are different than normally, but aren’t that drastic, it could just mean the fan is not functioning well, or some part went loose or the mechanism is full of dirt, so it could only require a smaller intervention.
Finally, your AC should be dry regardless whether it’s working or not. Some condensation or moisture is to be expected, but if you notice increased moisture in the rooms or higher amount of condensation or leakage, it could mean that you may need to replace your old unit.
Of course, you should always consult a professional, and in this case, ASAP, since water and electricity aren’t the safest combination. Also, it’s important not to do anything by yourself in this situation but leave to professionals, since the leakage may be related to refrigerants which can pose ahealth risk.
