How do you know if your air conditioner may need to be replaced soon? In this post we cover indicators that your AC system may need to be replaced, and explore which neighborhoods in Southwestern Pennsylvania are likely due for a new HVAC system given the date of when the homes were developed. Read on to see if your neighborhood is one of them.
What are the warning signs that your air conditioning system may need replacement?
Here are things you need to look for when you’re looking to see if your AC needs maintenance, repairs, or replacement:
- Poor airflow through your vents
- Warm air coming from your vents
- Strange noises
- Frequent cycling
- Unpleasant odors
- Water buildup around the indoor unit
- High humidity levels throughout your home
- Higher utility bills
- Ice buildup on pipes or ductwork
What neighborhoods in the Southwestern Pennsylvania region have aging systems?
Most HVAC units have a 15-20 year life expectancy. If your home was constructed between 2000-2009, your air conditioner is nearing or at the age where you should start thinking about replacement.
According to the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission Regional Data Center, these are some of the neighborhoods in SW Pennsylvania with the most homes built between 2000 and 2009. These areas will see the need for a new HVAC system in the near future.
Neighborhoods with Aging HVAC Systems:
- Valencia, Butler County
31% of new construction homes were built in 2000-2009
- Seven Fields, Butler County
25.7% of new construction homes were built in 2000-2009
- Cranberry Township, Butler County
22.3% of new construction homes were built in 2000-2009
- Robinson Township, Washington County
18% of new construction homes were built in 2000-2009
- Hampton Township, Allegheny County
9.1% of new construction homes were built in 2000-2009
What do these stats mean for SW Pennsylvania residents?
If your home falls in one of these areas and was built 15-20 years ago, you’re more likely to need system repairs or replacement this summer. Now’s the time to be proactive and prepared by scheduling maintenance or upgrading your system to a more dependable and energy-efficient unit.
Why are HVAC breakdowns more prevalent in older homes?
Factors such as your home’s layout, design, age, and structure, along with your unit’s maintenance history play a big role in determining its lifespan. Over time, problems ranging from poor airflow, leaky ductwork, and compromised air quality can impact efficiency, and dependability, while likely affecting your family’s health.
How to Ensure Your Aging AC is Ready for the Southwest Pennsylvania Summer
Schedule Your Yearly Maintenance
Before your HVAC system becomes a constant, energy-guzzling headache, take charge with proactive maintenance. Don't wait for problems to arise—schedule a visit from our expert technicians. They'll dive deep into your system, conducting a meticulous inspection, thoroughly cleaning, and offering preventive recommendations that proactively address potential issues.
At Spurk HVAC, our technicians follow a comprehensive checklist, ensuring your system operates at peak performance. By the end of your comprehensive maintenance check, you'll have a system primed for the weather ahead and a toolbox of options to consider for future maintenance and improvements.
Consider an Upgrade
Living in an older home comes with its charm, but when it comes to dated HVAC systems, sometimes it's best to say goodbye to the old and welcome the new. If your repair costs exceed $500 and your system is more than 15 years old, you’ll want to consider replacement. While HVAC units can last 15 to 20 years, anything over 10 years old will be out of warranty and the efficiency is probably not up to current standards.
Thankfully, federal regulations are pushing the industry towards more efficient and eco-friendly systems. When you're in the market for a replacement, consider a unit that exceeds the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). And since older homes have their quirks, ensure your new system is designed and sized to handle your home's unique needs.
For advice on selecting the perfect unit for your home, don't hesitate to contact us to guide you through the process, ensuring you make the right HVAC choice for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Take Advantage of Incentives and Financing
Though the upfront costs may seem intimidating, they don’t have to be. There are a couple of opportunities to save and make your system more affordable when purchasing a new unit.
- Federal HVAC Tax Credits
The Inflation Reduction Act provides tax credit opportunities to homeowners making energy-efficient home upgrades such as installing a new HVAC system. Contact us for more information about these tax credits and rebates.
- Act Before the Conversion Mandate Takes Effect
In January 2025, a new refrigerant mandate for HVAC systems will go into effect.The EPA has revised its refrigerant mandate, requiring all new residential HVAC equipment to transition to the environmentally sustainable, energy-efficient R454B or R32 refrigerant. This change is drastic, implementing new safety devices, sensors, and components. Starting in 2025, the new mandate may increase the cost of new HVAC systems by up to 30%.
- Financing
Take advantage of the no-interest and 0% APR financing options we have to choose from. This will help spread the payments out over time, making it easier to absorb the cost of a new system.
In conclusion
Contact Spurk HVAC for further details on enhancing your current system or upgrading to a new high-efficiency unit. Our skilled technicians will guide you through the process and address any concerns or questions.
We are well-equipped to repair, maintain, and if needed, replace your system. Contact us to schedule your AC maintenance, AC repair, or AC replacement today.
About Spurk HVAC
Spurk HVAC was formed in 2018 and is located in Warrendale, Pennsylvania. We proudly serve Cranberry Twp., Wexford, Gibsonia, Mars, and the surrounding areas. We are an American Standard Customer Care Dealer and a Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor.
Spurk HVAC was formed in 2018 and is located in Warrendale, Pennsylvania. We proudly serve Cranberry Twp., Wexford, Gibsonia, Mars, and the surrounding areas. We are an American Standard Customer Care Dealer and a Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor.
We service all makes and models. Please contact us if you are seeking heating repair, heating system replacement, air conditioner repair, air conditioning maintenance, air conditioning replacement, or any other heating & cooling services. Whether you are looking for residential or commercial HVAC services, we look forward to any and all opportunities to become your preferred HVAC contractor.
