The cool weather is here — has your home been as warm as you’d like? Do you find yourself wearing extra layers and turning up the thermostat more often than usual? Whether it’s a sudden change, or a gradual decline, you might be in denial about needing to upgrade your heating system.
Unfortunately, it’s a reality that most homeowners must eventually face. While updating or replacing your HVAC unit can be a big investment, the advancements in technology and efficiency will make it worth it in the long run. Let’s talk about some signs that you really shouldn’t ignore.
Your HVAC Is 10 Years Old
Some things get better with age. Unfortunately, your HVAC is not one of them. If your heating and cooling system is more than 10 years old, it’s probably time to start shopping for a new one. Older units have lower efficiency and a higher chance of breaking down when you need them most.
You’ve heard the old saying — you’ve got to spend money to make money. Well, in this situation, you’ll be spending to save. Modern HVAC systems are designed to run efficiently, which will save you on your monthly heating costs. Plus, you’ll likely avoid the added expense of emergency repairs.
Your Thermostat Is Old, Too
We don’t mean to beat a dead horse, but dated HVAC equipment can create major problems for your home. This includes one piece of hardware that you may have overlooked — the
thermostat. Not only can the wiring and connections fail over time, but an old-school model could be costing you a lot of money.
Modern programmable thermostats allow for greater control over how you use your HVAC unit. You’ll be able to divide different areas of your house into zones and create settings for when and how long you need heated air sent to specific rooms. The end result is a comfortable, more efficient home!
It’s the Wrong Size
Did you know that HVAC systems come in different sizes? What you need will depend on a number of factors, especially the size of your house. If you’ve noticed hot and cold rooms throughout your home or that your HVAC seems to struggle to keep up with your heating needs, it could be that it’s not powerful enough to handle the workload. Working with a qualified professional, like the technicians at W.G. Speeks, can help you find the right solution for your specific needs.
Not only will an undersized HVAC system fail to keep your home comfortable, but it may also be more prone to breaking down due to overuse. Plus, an HVAC unit that has to run constantly to try to heat your home means sky-high utility bills!
Your Furnace is Noisy
Back in the day, it was pretty common for those old radiators to make a lot of noise when you’d turn them on. There was something almost charming about it! There’s nothing quaint about amodern HVAC making a squeaking or clanking sound, though.
It could be that your furnace could use a tuneup or that some parts need replacing. It could also be a sign that something more serious is happening. If the parts have worn out or the connections are poor, it may be time to upgrade your heating system.
Air Duct Problems
We’ve already discussed how the wrong size HVAC can create hot and cold spots throughout your home, but did you know it can also be a sign of problems with your air ducts? When the seals are leaky and dated, it may prevent air from being properly distributed throughout your home. A well-designed duct system can make all the difference.
Another potential problem stems from the fact that leaky air ducts allow dust and other particles to enter and be spread through the ventilation system. Not only could this affect whether your home is evenly warmed, but it can also negatively impact indoor air quality.
HVAC Upgrades in Richmond, VA
Rather than play the guessing game, the best thing to do is talk to a professional. They can help you determine whether your heating system needs cleaning, a tuneup, upgrading, or replacing. Sometimes, updating just a few components, such as adding a programmable thermostat, can improve comfort in your home, extend the life of your HVAC unit, and lower your power bill.
W.G. Speeks offers a free consultation with our NATE-certified technicians. We’ve been proudly assisting families in the Greater Richmond Region with their heating and cooling needs for more than 75 years. Let us help you. Call W.G. Speeks today!
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