Your air conditioner might look fine, but problems could be lurking. Everyone wants to save money and feel more comfortable at home. But with an older heating and air conditioning system, that can be a tricky combination to achieve. You can adjust the thermostat to produce cooler or warmer air, but your energy bills go up accordingly. Then sometimes, adjusting the thermostat doesn’t help at all, especially if the system is older. So, what should you do?
If you’re trying to decide whether it’s time to replace your home’s comfort system, talk with us at Bunn’s and Bennett Heating and Air Conditioning to learn about your options. Until then, here are a few home evaluations that you can make on your own.
- Your System is More Than 10 Years Old- The lifespan of a home’s comfort system goes on the decline after about 10 years. Although yours might be in great shape at a decade and counting, it’s not unusual for other problems to start creeping up when the system is a little older. At 10 years, it’s reasonable to start shopping for something new, such as an American Standard or Westinghouse home comfort system. The money you spend repairing chronic problems could go toward buying a new system!
- Your Repairs and Related Costs are Racking Up- All comfort systems need repairs once in a while. But if yours is out of service as much as it’s not, or if repair costs start to pinch your wallet, it’s time to think about whether you should keep it. Some repairs happen sooner than they should if an oversized unit is installed. When a comfort system is too big for the job, it cycles on and off frequently, which can cause the system to break down sooner than it should.
- Your House Isn’t Cool or Warm Enough- During peak times of heat or cold, your home’s comfort system really gets a workout. But if your home isn’t warm enough or cool enough when it should be, you might need to replace your system. On the other hand, a routine maintenance inspection from Bunn’s and Bennett Heating and Air Conditioning might isolate an issue that is relatively minor. Your refrigerant level might be too low or your system as a whole might just need a good cleaning. Give Bunn’s and Bennett a call, we will be happy to isolate your problem(s) and provide a solution.
- Your Energy Bills are Sky High- An inefficient comfort system requires too much energy to warm or cool your home. If your energy bills are higher than what seems reasonable, a more efficient system can cut your energy bills by as much as 30%. Bunn’s and Bennett’s high efficiency comfort systems works smarter, not harder. They eliminate more humidity than a traditional unit, which means your home feels warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer at a slightly lower or higher temperature than with a less efficient system.
- The System is Too Noisy- All comfort systems make some noise, but rattles, clanks and other unusual sounds mean something isn’t working properly. If you catch it early, the problem might be repairable. But if it’s not, replacing your system will allow you to start saving energy and money sooner rather than later. All high efficiency systems from Bunn’s and Bennett are super quiet.
- Air Quality is Dropping- Comfort system units filter indoor air, which should make your home fresher smelling and cleaner, too. But when air quality drops off, there may be a problem with the system. Pet dander, dust and pollen can spread through the house. Moisture can also build up, leading to mold and mildew in some areas, especially windows. A high efficiency system produces clean, filtered air and virtually eliminates excess humidity.
The decision to replace your comfort system is usually never an easy one. If yours is still repairable, it might not be quite time to replace it yet. Bunn’s and Bennett can help explain the pros and cons of keeping it or buying something new.
Bunn’s & Bennett Heating & Air Conditioning
Call Bunn’s and Bennett today at 256-536-0967 or email us at [email protected]. for complete comfort system checkup, and to learn about all of your options. Bunn’s and Bennett Heating and Air Conditioning is a fully licensed and insured HVAC contractor, serving Huntsville and The Tennessee Valley for more than 30 years.
