If you live in an older home, you may run into issues with your HVAC system. From compromised air quality to difficulty heating and cooling your home, these problems can negatively impact the health and comfort of your family. Here are three HVAC issues that are common in older homes and how to address them.

3 HVAC Issues Homeowners Can Face with an Older Construction

1. Poor Insulation

The standards for home insulation were lower in older constructions than they are today. With less insulation, many of these older homes have a harder time maintaining a comfortable temperature. The HVAC systems in older homes often have to work overtime, which strains the system and drives up utility bills.

If you’re facing this issue, you can maximize the heating and cooling of your home by adding insulation, starting with the roof where most of the heat escapes. While there are several options for home insulation, spray foam insulation is a wise choice as it can be added without opening walls or tearing up floorboards. In this form of insulation, a professional will spray the foam into a small opening in the desired area, which then expands to fill the space. You can also improve insulation by checking for drafts in your home, particularly around windows and doors. Use caulk or spray foam to block these air leaks to keep your home protected from the elements.

2. Improperly Sized HVAC System

Another issue could be that you have the wrong size HVAC system for your home, which can negatively impact your comfort and wallet. If the AC is too small, your space won’t cool down properly and the unit will run non-stop, driving up energy bills. On the other hand, if it’s too large, it will short cycle, creating drastic temperature swings as it rapidly cycling off and on. With these short cycles, your AC also won’t run long enough to remove humidity, which could lead to mildew and mold growth. Oversized units will often need frequent repairs as well since the internal parts will wear down more quickly. A properly sized unit will keep energy costs reasonable and create a consistently comfortable home environment.

3. Outdated Air Ducts

Over time, your HVAC system will begin to wear out, which can make it hard to maintain comfortable heating and cooling in your home. If the air ducts in your system are out of date they can become damaged, preventing the even flow of hot or cool air through your home. Air ducts generally have a lifespan of about 15 years, so if your system has exceeded that limit, it’s time for a replacement. You’ll also want to have them professionally cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of harmful contaminants from spreading throughout your home.

If you’re having issues heating and cooling your home and need an HVAC repair or installation, put your trust in Lenox Heating & Cooling. Serving residents throughout Chillicothe and Ross County, OH, for over 20 years, this family-owned and -operated company proudly holds an A+ rating from the BBB, and provide convenient same-day appointments & 24-hour emergency service. Call at (740) 702-2665 to make an appointment or visit them online for more information.