Although each HVAC system is unique and there isn't always a set standard for when a system has to be replaced, there are several signs that you can look for that indicate a need for replacement. This option has to be considered, especially if a trusted technician already recommends that you do so since there is a big chance that you will only be spending large amounts of money to have your HVAC unit repaired frequently.

What are the signs you have to look out for as proof that you need to have your HVAC system replacement immediately? Read them below:

• You've had your HVAC for more than 10 years now. Although HVAC experts say that some systems can work for as long as 20 years, these units still lose their efficiency over time, especially when compared to the newer models out on the market today. Generally, the older an HVAC is, the more it will cost you to use and maintain it.
• There is an increase in your bills for HVAC repair expenses. If you seem to be calling some HVAC technicians to repair your system more frequently than before, you are incurring a lot of expenses for these works. And if your HVAC is costing you quite a bit for repairs, it may be time to consider getting a new unit. It would certainly be more cost-efficient on your part if you invest in a new system that won't break down frequently instead of paying large amounts of money for recurring repair services.
• It has become too noisy. An HVAC system that makes a lot of loud noises usually means that it is improperly sized to carry the heating and cooling load in the home or building. It could also mean that there are some other mechanical problems. In general, an older unit will not run as quietly as a newer model.
• It is having a tough time keeping up with your heating and cooling needs. When an HVAC unit becomes older, it also becomes less efficient. If you've had your home expanded or there is an increase in the number of occupants, your heating and cooling unit may not be capable of handling the extra workload. In such instances, there is a need to replace your unit.
• The air quality in your home has gone down. If you can't seem to get rid of the dust in your home, it may mean that the filters on the HVAC system have to be changed. However, if the air quality is diminished, it can also be due to the unit being too small to handle the air exchange. It can also be a sign of an aging system.

HVAC Maintenance Contracts save You Money

Are you ready to get information about HVAC Maintenance Contracts? The summer is coming to a close and it's time for a seasonal HVAC maintenance check. It won't be long before you'll need to switch to heating in the evenings. Even though it may be a while before the serious cold whether comes upon us, you don't want to be among the many who find out that they have a problem with their system at the same time. There are only a fixed number of service technicians to go around, so some customers may have to wait.

It's not unusual for failures to occur when a system is turned on after a long period of inactivity. Your heating system has been dormant for quite a few months and you should have it checked out before the heating season is upon us. If you have gas heat, a technician can check for leaks in the heat exchanger, and also test and adjust to ensure that carbon monoxide (CO) is not being produced.

If you have a heat pump, a technician should check that the reversing valve is functioning properly to switch back and forth between the heating and cooling cycles. He or she should also verify that the auxiliary heater is in good condition and that the emergency mode for heating will work if needed.

This would also be a good time to clean the indoor and outdoor coils, and check for any problems that may have developed in the cooling system after a long hot season of operation. If you have a service or preventive maintenance contract, your technician will probably check all of the electrical connections while he's there. Otherwise you'll need to ask the technician specifically to do so.

Electrical connections tend to become loose with expansion and contraction from temperature changes throughout the year. This results in hot connections, low voltage to motors, high amperage that can damage motors, and even cause a fire. Most HVAC maintenance contracts include checking this, but it's not normally done during non-contract service calls.

A regular program of seasonal visits for HVAC maintenance service checks can go a long way toward keeping your system operating safely and efficiently. In addition to cleaning coils, and changing air filters, an experienced HVAC maintenance technician will monitor the system operation and can recognize anomalies that a non-trained person wouldn't notice. Developing problems that are caught early usually can be corrected with minimum expense and inconvenience. When left unnoticed until a failure occurs, more often than not, costs considerably more to correct. For more information click here.

As a bare minimum, you should schedule an HVAC maintenance visit at least twice a year. It would be much better to establish a preventive maintenance service contract with a reputable HVAC maintenance company. This would ensure that a systematic check is performed on your HVAC system. A reliable, efficiently operating HVAC system means more comfort, and money saved in the long term.