There are many reasons that your heating and cooling bills may be high – poor insulation in your home, lack of HVAC maintenance, etc. But if you notice a sudden spike in heating and cooling costs, it could be that your HVAC system is no longer running efficiently. One of Ultimate Comfort Heating & Cooling's expert technicians can evaluate your system to determine if any repairs are needed or if it may be time to replace your HVAC system.

#2. An Old HVAC System

How long an HVAC system will last depends on many factors, such as the type of system, outdoor temperatures, how well it's maintained, etc. However, the average HVAC systems last 15-25 years. If you have an older HVAC system and don't want to risk a sudden breakdown on the coldest day of the year or scrambling for money to pay for an expensive repair, it may be time to have your HVAC system evaluated to see if it's time for a new system.

Plus, a newer system can help you save on annual heating and cooling costs. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, "ENERGY STAR certified heating and cooling equipment, when properly installed, can yield annual energy bill savings of 10-30%. The U.S. Department of Energy reports, "Even if your air conditioner is only 10 years old, you may save 20% to 40% of your cooling energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model."

#3. Frequent and/or Expensive Repairs

Regular maintenance is vital to keeping an HVAC system running efficiently, and occasional basic repairs are to be expected. However, if you're experiencing frequent and/or expensive repairs, it may be time to consider a new HVAC system to minimize the hassle and expense of frequent repairs and ensure your family's comfort.

#4. A Continuously Running HVAC System 

During particularly frigid days in the winter and scorching days in summer, your HVAC will need to run more frequently to keep your home comfortable. But if you find your heating or cooling system constantly running on average days, it may indicate a problem with the system. Even if the constant running maintains a comfortable temperature inside your home, you may not like the resulting utility bill. If you notice your system is running more than usual on average days, contact the expert technicians at Ultimate Comfort Heating & Cooling. It may be a simple repair or an indicator that it's time to look at a new HVAC system.

#5. Uneven Temperatures Throughout Your Home

There could be many reasons for freezing in your bedroom while melting in your living room – blocked vents or ducts, poorly sealed windows or doors, thermostat location, etc. Or it could be that your HVAC system is too small or too old. Again, the best way to fix the problem is to talk with an experienced technician. 

#6. Weak Air Flow

If you discover very little cool or warm air blowing out of your vents, the problem could be as simple as a clogged air filter or a more serious and costly issue. If your HVAC system is not operating at its peak performance, you're risking your family's comfort and paying higher than necessary utility bills, making it the perfect time to evaluate whether or not it's time for a new HVAC system.

#7. Loud or Strange Noises

All HVAC systems make some noise when they start up and shut down. Typically, we become accustomed to those noises and barely even notice them. But if you suddenly begin hearing loud bangs, whistling, grinding, or other unusual noises, it's time to get your HVAC system checked out. Again, it may be a simple repair or an indicator that it's time to look at installing a new HVAC system.

If you experience any of these signs, give Ultimate Comfort Heating & Cooling a call today at 610-750-8314 or connect with us online for a FREE Comfort Analysis. We will evaluate your system to determine if any repairs are needed and help determine if it may be time to replace your HVAC system.