Is It Time for a New Unit?

As a homeowner, you understand there are certain investments you make for your home. It makes sense that you want to get the most out of your investments. Unfortunately, no matter how well you take care of your investments, the time eventually comes when they need replacing—and your HVAC unit is no exception.

An old, malfunctioning or damaged HVAC system can result in many issues for homeowners, including energy bill spikes and poor air quality. If you’re not sure if it’s time for you to invest in a new heating and cooling unit, check out our top five signs that you need a new HVAC.

Your Unit is More Than a Decade Old

The Department of Energy recommends that homeowners replace their unit every ten to fifteen years. Modern air conditioners and furnaces are durable (like Trane’s line of reputable HVAC systems), but over time, their major components will begin to deteriorate.

Additionally, some units more than a decade old contain R-22 refrigerant—an outdated and harmful freon. Upgrading to a new unit not only will reduce your carbon footprint, but will also save you money on your energy bill.

Repairs Cost More than Half the Cost of a New Unit

If you’re wondering whether to repair or replace your current system and it’s more than ten years old, it’s likely that the new unit will be your best investment. Every HVAC unit will require a repair every now and then. However, if your unit requires a repair that costs more than half of the price of a new AC or furnace, the smartest move is to invest in a new one. Trane has a comprehensive line of products that are reliable, durable and covered by one of the best warranties in the industry.

3. Your Energy Bills Continue to Rise

While your energy bill likely changes with the season, bills for the same month of different years should be similar. Outlandish energy bills are another telltale sign that you should replace—or at least service—your unit. As HVAC systems get older, their efficiency often declines, leading to higher energy costs.

Furthermore, HVAC units that are serviced by a certified Comfort Specialist twice a year are more likely to last longer. Regular maintenance will improve the lifespan of your unit, but at some time, an upgrade will be necessary. Upgrading to a high-efficiency Trane unit can reduce your energy costs by up to 20 percent.

4. You Can’t Keep Your Home Comfortable

If you’re struggling to keep your home at a consistent temperature, it might be a sign that your HVAC unit needs replacing. Inconsistent temperatures not only increase energy costs, but also may be a sign of a damaged thermostat, clogged filters, cracked ducts, or serious damage to motors.

In easier terms, inconsistent temperatures often mean that your unit isn’t powerful enough to supply air throughout your home, or that your ductwork was not installed properly. If that’s the case, it’s time to replace your unit. Fortunately, Trane units are designed to last, and are built to keep your home heated and cooled efficiently.

5. Your Air Quality Worsens

Your HVAC unit isn’t just around to heat and cool your home. It is also the source of your home’s air ventilation. If you notice more dust, dirt, dander, or debris in your home’s air, or any unusual smells, you may need to replace your unit. Poor air quality is a sign that your unit is damaged and should be replaced with a top-of-the-line unit from Trane.

If you’re still left wondering if it’s time to replace your unit, contact us today. A certified comfort specialist from Air Tech of Humble will be happy to assess your unit to determine if replacement is necessary. If they determine that’s the case, they will also help you select a new unit from Trane that best suits your home and its needs.