Heating and cooling systems are essential to keeping your home comfortable. Having a reliable one can make all the difference on a scorching summer day or freezing winter night. Conversely, a run-down unit won’t provide adequate temperature control and will harm your family’s comfort. Here are five tips for recognizing when it’s time to upgrade to a new air conditioning unit.

Is It Time to Replace Your Air Conditioning Unit?

1. High Energy Bills

HVAC systems become less efficient as they age, taking more power to heat or cool the same amount of space, but doing so less effectively. This is often a result of air slippage. It harms the environment by draining natural resources and also skyrockets energy bills. If you notice you’re paying more in utilities but haven’t upped your usage, it may be time for a new system.

2. Uneven Temperatures

Do you notice your bedroom is constantly warmer than the kitchen? A unit that struggles to maintain a steady temperature throughout your home is likely at the end of its lifespan. It’s best to replace it during mild months like spring or fall before it results in serious discomfort from extremely high or low temperatures.

3. Strange Smells

HVAC units don’t only regulate temperature; they also filter the air to remove impurities and improve quality. Sometimes, however, an old system can be the cause of poor air quality. This may result when mold and mildew build up in the evaporator coil, and the blower then distributes their scents throughout your home. This indicates that your system is trapping moisture, and may need to be replaced. In addition to causing an unpleasant smell, mold and mildew can trigger allergy symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and sore throat.

4. Noises From the Unit

When an HVAC system begins to make banging or whining noises, it’s a good bet that it’s on its last legs. These noises often have varied causes. For instance, if aging sealant comes loose and allows pipes to bump together, you’ll hear a loud banging or knocking noise. If you hear rattling or squealing, it typically means your fan is going bad.

5. Aging Technology

Even an HVAC system that’s still functioning adequately will eventually age to the point where its technology is obsolete, usually within a decade. Thanks to constant innovations, the systems of today offer a higher quality of service. For example, they feature upgrades like remote access via smartphones, so you can control the conditions in your house no matter where you are. Not only does this allow you to come home to a more comfortable atmosphere, but it also improves energy-efficiency.

If it’s time to install a new air conditioning unit, contact Purvis Heating & Air Conditioning in Fitzgerald, GA. Since 1976, they’ve served clients throughout Ocilla, Irwinville, Sycamore, Ashburn, Rochelle, Abbeville, Wray, Ambrose, Jacksonville, Osierfield, Pitts, Alapaha, Mystic, Rebecca, Pineview, Lax, Chula, and Waterloo. The team provides a wide spectrum of quality-focused services, from home furnace and AC installations to general heating and cooling maintenance. Learn more by visiting them online, or call (229) 423-9100 to schedule service today.