Category: HVAC

The Telltale Signs It’s Time to Repair or Replace Your HVAC System

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If you find that your cooling system isn’t working as it should, it may be time to repair or replace it. You can usually tell whether or not it’s time to repair or replace your HVAC system based on how often you need repairs, how your system is, and what kind of repairs you need to get it working right again. In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common indicators that your HVAC needs repairing or replacing, so you can make an informed decision on how to proceed with your home’s air conditioning system.

HVAC System

Temperature Fluctuations

Older, less efficient, systems are more likely to get stuck in an on-and-off cycle of heating and cooling, which can wear down your system much faster. You may notice that it takes longer for your house to cool down than it used to. The fix could be as simple as weather stripping or repairing a hole in the attic. If you know that your home is sealed properly, a repair may not be an option. If you’re having problems maintaining consistent temperatures, it’s definitely time for an upgrade.

Foul Odor

As your air conditioner runs, it emits smells that can take away from a pleasant environment. If you notice that there is a bad odor coming from your A/C, it’s possible that you have mold growing in your ductwork. You should have an expert come out to investigate and assess what needs to be done next. In some cases, they may recommend a repair; in others, replacement may be required. That depends on several factors including the age of the unit, quality of installation, and usage patterns.

HVAC System

Air Leaks

Leaks are a silent killer in any cooling system. They occur when there is a hole in ductwork, a unit is poorly insulated, or rusted hangers are present, among other things. These leaks can account for up to 40% of your home’s cooling load during the summer months. Think about how much energy that wastes! Leaks will also contribute to dust build-up, leading your air filter life cycle to be shorter and wear on other parts of your system quicker. If your home is currently experiencing an air leak, call the professionals at Cool Touch. It may be as simple as sealing the leak but if the leak is catastrophic, then you may need a replacement. 

HVAC System

Lack of Maintenance

A poorly maintained HVAC system can lead to extreme temperature swings, which can be uncomfortable and even dangerous. If you have neglected to perform maintenance on your system, you will most likely need to replace your system earlier than most. This is because a lack of proper maintenance increases wears on components like motor bearings, filters, belts, and more. These components are all designed to work for a certain amount of time before they need a replacement; however, if they are not replaced when needed, they will likely fail prematurely. This means that you may find yourself in a situation where your system needs to be replaced sooner than you expected, costing more down the road.

HVAC system

Your System Is 10 Years or Older

Since newer systems are more energy efficient and operate quieter, they make homes and buildings more comfortable than older systems. Older units also have a greater risk of failure due to wear and tear. In fact, a system that’s 10 years old can be twice as likely to break down as one that’s only 5 years old. If your system is ten years or older, it may be time for a new one!

HVAC System

Your System Needs Frequent Repairs

If your system is out of commission for a substantial amount of time, and it seems like there’s always something wrong with it, then maybe it’s time to consider replacing it. While repairs are an important part of keeping your equipment running optimally, too many repairs indicate there is a larger problem at hand. 

 

If your home is currently experiencing one of these problems listed above, it’s time to call the professionals at Cool Touch. Our team of experts will be able to assess your system and provide you with options on whether it is best to repair or replace your system. Give us a call today at 623-230-3658 and let us answer any questions you may have! 

5 Commonly Asked Questions About An HVAC Installation

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If you’re thinking about installing an HVAC system in your home, you’re probably going to have some questions along the way. For example, how much does an HVAC installation cost? How long does it take to install? What can I do about my home’s heating and cooling when I am away on vacation? These are just some of the most commonly asked questions surrounding an HVAC installation, but you don’t have to worry because you are not alone! Here are the five most common questions that people ask about HVAC installations.

hvac installation

How can I tell if I need a new unit?

While there aren’t hard and fast rules for determining whether or not you need a new unit, there are several signs that suggest you may need a replacement. The first thing to consider is age. If your system is over eight years old, then it might be time for an upgrade. You should also take into account how much money you have spent on repairs in recent months. If they amount to more than one-third of what a new system would cost, then a replacement might make the most sense. If these two things don’t apply but your unit still isn’t running as efficiently as it used to, then perhaps upgrading makes sense. Your best resource when it comes to determining whether or not you need a new air conditioner is a trained technician. One of our Cool Touch technicians will be able to tell right away if your unit needs replacing and can advise you on getting a new one that suits your home’s specific needs. 

 

Do I need to replace my ductwork?

When you’re getting an air conditioner installed, ductwork is often considered a necessary evil. But do you really need to have your ducts replaced? Not in every scenario. As long as they aren’t damaged and are in good shape, meaning not too brittle or dirty, they won’t cause problems for your new system. During your estimate, a technician will be able to inspect your ductwork to help determine if your home is a candidate for new ductwork and will be able to give you their recommendation.

 

What size air conditioning system do I need?

First, you’ll need to consider how much space you want to cool, then add 20%. Most A/C units are unable to cool your home evenly because they’re designed to cool a specific number of square feet. For example, if your home is 1,200 square feet, that means it has 1,440 sq. ft. of air-conditioning territory. Your technician will be able to help you determine the appropriate size based on your home during the consultation. Purchasing the wrong size can have a negative effect on your cooling efficiency. If you purchase too large of a system, you won’t be able to run it as often as needed because it will take longer to cool down your home. If you purchase too small of a system, then you won’t be able to cool down your entire house at once. This could mean that some rooms are too hot while others are comfortable. This wastes energy and money! However, you don’t have to worry because our Cool Touch team will always steer you in the right direction!

 

How long does an HVAC installation take?

This depends on a variety of factors, but you should be able to get a basic idea from the technician. If you’re looking for an A/C system for your home, installation can take roughly one day. If you are looking for additional services, like installing ductwork, this could take more time depending on the complexity of the installation. In any case, it is important to have realistic expectations about how long installation will take and what it entails. You should always ask as many questions as possible so that you know exactly what to expect during your installation. 

 

How much will it cost?

Of course, people want to know how much it will cost to get an HVAC system installed. This is a very important question in order for you to budget properly for a new system. Many factors can determine the cost including brand, accessories, and what size unit your home needs. However, there are some general guidelines on how much it should cost to install an HVAC system. If you’re looking for a price range, expect to pay around $3,800-$6,300 on average, when installing an HVAC system with ductwork. 

 

Investing in a new HVAC installation isn’t a small decision. It’s important that you ask the appropriate questions and ensure you have all the facts first. We hope this guide helped answer your frequently asked questions so you can start being COOL again in your home. Ready to schedule your estimate or still have more questions regarding a new HVAC system? Give us a call at 623-230-3658 or contact us online today!