Your home’s HVAC and plumbing systems are critical parts of daily life, adding convenience and comfort no matter what Elizabethtown’s weather throws at us. Even well-maintained home systems have an expected lifespan, which means old home heating systems and dated plumbing will need to be replaced. For many homeowners, it’s difficult to know when to replace HVAC systems or plumbing infrastructure.
Your local experts at Allen’s Air Conditioning put together these common signs that it’s time to replace your HVAC system or plumbing.
Three Signs It’s Time To Replace Your HVAC System
If your furnace, heater, air conditioning unit, or heat pump is showing any of the following issues, it might be time to upgrade. Remember that even with regular maintenance, high-quality HVAC equipment should be replaced every 10 to 30 years.
1. Your HVAC System Constantly Needs Repairs
Recurring, costly, and inconvenient HVAC repairs mean your system is on its last legs. If you’re making multiple repairs during the heating or cooling seasons, it’s time to start looking at newer equipment. Consider switching to an energy-efficient heat pump, which can heat and cool your home while keeping replacement costs in check!
2. Your HVAC System Is More Than 15 Years Old
While the exact expected lifespan of HVAC equipment varies, furnaces, central air conditioning units, and heaters typically last 15-25 years. Heat pumps and ductless mini-splits have shorter lifespans, usually 10-20 years. If your equipment is past the halfway point in its lifespan, ask your Allen’s Air Conditioning technician for a detailed assessment.
Regular maintenance, correct sizing, and the quality of initial installation all play a role in your equipment’s longevity.
3. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing
Old equipment is generally less energy efficient. That lack of efficiency only increases as older equipment wears out due to age, poor maintenance, or other problems. If you notice gas or electricity usage – and costs – rising, consider this one of the warning signs to replace an HVAC. Schedule an inspection to determine whether it’s time to replace your HVAC system.
Read More: The Best Home Upgrades to Maximize ROI
When Is the Best Time To Replace Your HVAC System?
The best time to replace your heating or cooling system is during the spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate. This is typically considered the off-season for Elizabethtown HVAC companies, including Allen’s Air Conditioning; this allows us to provide more flexible scheduling.
Smart Questions To Ask Your HVAC Tech
We take the time to answer all your questions about replacing your furnace, boiler, or AC unit. After explaining the process, we’ll address all your concerns, including critical elements of the project, such as:
- What size system do I need?
- Are there any federal, state, or local rebates available for the recommended equipment?
- What are the most energy-efficient options for my home?
- What is the warranty on the new equipment, and what does it cover?
We’ll take the time to explain these answers and more, ensuring you get the right equipment and know why it’s the best fit for you.
Common Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Plumbing
There is no such thing as a small plumbing problem, and older equipment is prone to big problems. Corrosion, age, and other factors make outdated plumbing infrastructure high-risk; here’s how you’ll know it’s time to upgrade your system.
1. Frequent Leaks
Leaks can occur, but when there are multiple leaks in different areas of your home, it suggests that the entire plumbing system may be weakening. These leaks are often caused by faulty valves or corrosion. If left unaddressed or unnoticed, leaks can lead to costly water damage and mold growth, as well as compromise the structural integrity of your home.
2. Discolored Water
Yellow, brown, or cloudy water is often a sign of pipe corrosion. Rust and mineral deposits break away, causing discoloration and compromising the pipes' interior.
3. Low Water Pressure
A noticeable, gradual drop in water pressure indicates that mineral build-up is restricting water flow within the pipes. This often leads to leaks or burst pipes.
What Does It Cost To Update Plumbing?
The cost to update plumbing in your home varies based on several factors, including the size of your home, the type of piping material, the accessibility of your plumbing for technicians (which affects the project timeline), and the costs of any necessary permits. We’ll give you a detailed quote, so you know how much your plumbing upgrade will cost.
What To Ask Before Replacing Your Plumbing System
Begin by learning as much as possible about current plumbing components, focusing on their age, material, and maintenance history. Here are some additional questions to ask your Allen’s Air Conditioning technician as you begin the replacement process:
- What pipe material do you recommend and why?
- How long will the project take?
- What is the warranty, and what does it cover?
- Are you licensed and insured?
Your Local Home Service Pros
Homeowners in Fort Knox, Columbia, and beyond count on our team for prompt, professional home services. From emergency HVAC repairs to a detailed plumbing system replacement, our highly trained technicians combine excellent customer service and exceptional skill. For an honest assessment of your HVAC and plumbing system, contact our team today!
Contact us online or call 270-946-1525 to schedule an appointment!