How Do You Know When to Replace Your System?

Nothing lasts forever.

Parting with your old furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner (AC) is rarely an easy decision. But at some point, replacing your old equipment makes more sense financially than repairing it.

If you’re in the market for new heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment, you’re in luck. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) notes that switching out your AC unit of 15 years or older to a new high-efficiency model could reduce your utilities by up to 50 percent.

Doornbos Heating and Air Conditioning is proud to provide Illinois customers like you with the latest HVAC information. That way, you can make informed decisions that improve your comfort and lower your energy use.

How Old Is Your HVAC System?

HVAC units have varying lifecycles. Check the owner’s manual to see how long your specific make or model should last. On average, air conditioners, heat pumps, and boilers last 10 to 15 years. Furnaces can last up to 30.

Perform a Cost-Benefit Analysis

The most important thing to consider is cost. Will it be more expensive to replace your current system or repair it? If you’ve scheduled multiple repairs in the past year or so, more issues are likely to follow.

Additionally, HVAC units begin to use more energy as the equipment ages, which can drive up utilities. Talk to your Doornbos specialist about scheduling an analysis—we can help find the most cost-effective option for your Palos Heights home.

Know the Signs of an Aging HVAC System

Is your HVAC unit telling you it needs to be replaced? Here are some symptoms you can factor into your decision, along with age and repair costs.

Air conditioning units and heat pumps extract excess moisture from the air to make your home more comfortable. If this function stops working, it might be time for a replacement.

Other symptoms include:

Poor humidity balance
Spotty heating or cooling
High electric bills

Furnaces typically burn gas or oil. The heat rises into the heat exchanger, where it gets transferred to your ductwork. As these internal parts get older, they work less efficiently. Eventually, the furnace fails.

Other symptoms include:

Loud, irregular noises from your air ducts
Poor heating or stuffy air
High natural gas or oil expenses

Boilers circulate hot water through pipes in your home. This heats the metal, which radiates warmth into your living space. However, sediment can eat away at your boiler over time and cause it to lose function.

Other symptoms include:

Poor heating or no heat
Water leaks
High gas bills

Hopefully, you will find these tips useful in determining whether you should repair or replace your heating and cooling equipment. We understand your HVAC system is a significant investment—we want to make sure you get the most value from it.

Call Today for Quality HVAC Services

Need an installation, repair, or maintenance? Doornbos has been servicing homes and businesses in Palos Heights, IL, for over 90 years. Call us today at (708) 423-9580 or request service online.