HVAC manufacturers and the Department of Energy suggest that homeowners should replace their equipment every 10 to 15 years. However, many people ignore this advice, which isn’t surprising given the high cost of a replacement unit. While age is a primary factor when considering an upgrade, certain signs indicate that a unit may be too far gone for an HVAC unit repair near Town And Country to be effective.
Furnace
The heat exchanger is the engine of a gas furnace. It transfers heat from the burners to the air circulating throughout the system. If there are holes and cracks in a heat exchanger, the unit should be replaced as soon as possible. Over time, a dirty air filter can cause a cracked heat exchanger, but most damage is due to problems with the condensate drain or pan on the HVAC unit. A cracked heat exchanger can release an unsafe amount of carbon monoxide in the home; therefore, it should be replaced immediately.
Boilers
Like the furnaces mentioned above, a gas boiler has a heat exchanger that affects its overall health and performance. In a boiler, the exchanger holds water, and a leak may indicate a problem. A boiler can be damaged by external sources such as prolonged or frequent flooding. If the boiler has rust on the bottom of the tank, it should be inspected by a specialist.
AC Units
A central AC unit typically doesn’t have as long a shelf life as a furnace does, and outdoor components need more maintenance. An indication that it’s time to replace an HVAC unit is frequent repair. A failing part or poor setup can cause damage throughout the system, but repairs won’t reverse damage already done. If the unit must be serviced multiple times in one season, the homeowner should consider replacement over HVAC unit repair near Town And Country.
Operating Costs
Because an HVAC system is the home’s main energy user, operating cost is a crucial factor in determining a replacement timeline. A good rule to follow is this: if repairs cost more than half the price of an upgrade, it’s time to replace the unit. Contact Classic Aire Care for HVAC services near Town And Country. Visit Sitename to find out how a prompt replacement can help a homeowner save on utility bills each month.
