Your HVAC system is used all year long, cooling your home in the summer and keeping it warm in the winter. Over the years, through wear and tear, HVAC repairs are necessary to maintain it. However, eventually, all units will need to be replaced. If your system is malfunctioning, there are ways to determine if a repair or replacement is right for you. 

When Should You Make Repairs?

Your air conditioner and heat pump should last 10 to 12 years, while your furnace should last around 15 to 20. During that time, damage will occur that an HVAC repair can quickly resolve. 

Air conditioners use refrigerant to cool your residence, creating condensation. However, this liquid should never leak into your home. If you notice a pool of water or a continuous drip from your AC, reach out to a technician for repairs. 

A tear in your ductwork could mean a decrease in efficiency. A contractor can reseal the damaged duct and restore your airflow. 

Periodically, check your system for noises. While startup noises are normal, if your unit makes a rattling or buzzing sound, there’s likely just a loose part that needs to be tightened. 

However, in some cases, investing in a new system will be a better option.

When is a Replacement Necessary? 

Many contractors use the 50% rule. If the cost of repairing your unit is more than half of the value of your HVAC system, they’ll suggest replacing rather than repairing. 

While some strange noises are easily repaired, others indicate a more significant problem. Loud noises will occur more frequently as the system ages. If you’re calling technicians to your home more often and the noises persist, your unit likely needs more than a tune-up.

Efficiency and capability are also factors. If you notice that your utility bills have been increasing while your home isn’t as warm or as cool as it should be, it’s a sign that your HVAC is working harder to function, and that a breakdown is likely to occur. 

Modern HVAC systems, like the ones used by Armstrong Air®, are more energy efficient. They’ll heat and cool your home while also saving you money on your utility bills throughout the year. You could also be entitled to rebates or credits from your energy provider by switching to energy-efficient units. 

If your HVAC system isn’t heating or cooling as it should, reach out to Bear Heating & Cooling, Inc. They have nearly 40 years of experience in HVAC repairs and replacements. Dedicated to their residential and commercial clients throughout Girard, OH, they also offer 24/7 emergency assistance. For more information on their air conditioning services, visit their website. To schedule a free consultation, give them a call at (330) 545-0743.