Category: HVAC Repair

What is the Average HVAC System Lifespan? (And Helpful Tips to Extend It!)

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HVAC systems play a crucial role in maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures, ventilation, and air quality in our homes and workplaces. However, like any other mechanical equipment, HVAC systems have a finite lifespan. In this article, we will explore the average lifespan of HVAC systems and provide helpful tips on how to extend their longevity.

The Average Lifespan of HVAC Systems

The lifespan of an HVAC system can vary depending on several factors, such as the quality and brand of the equipment, regular maintenance, usage patterns, and environmental conditions. On average, a well-maintained HVAC system can last between 15 to 20 years. However, some systems may start experiencing efficiency issues or breakdowns after around 10 years.

Factors that Affect HVAC System Lifespan

Several factors can impact the lifespan of an HVAC system:

1. Maintenance: Proper and regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of an HVAC system. Regular inspections, cleaning, and servicing by a professional HVAC technician can identify potential issues early and prevent major breakdowns.

2. Usage and Load: The frequency and duration of use also impact the lifespan of an HVAC system. Systems used year-round or subjected to heavy loads, such as in commercial spaces or homes with large families, tend to have a shorter lifespan.

3. Environmental Conditions: The climate and environmental conditions in which an HVAC system operates can affect its lifespan. Extreme temperatures, high humidity, airborne particles, and corrosive environments can put additional strain on the system, increasing wear and tear.

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of HVAC Systems

1. Regular Maintenance: As mentioned earlier, regular maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of an HVAC system. It is recommended to schedule professional HVAC inspections and maintenance at least once a year, preferably before the start of the heating or cooling season. This will ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly, improving the system’s efficiency and reducing the risk of breakdowns.

2. Change Air Filters: Air filters play a vital role in maintaining indoor air quality and protecting the HVAC system from dust, dirt, and debris. Clogged filters restrict airflow, increase energy consumption, and put strain on the system components. Regularly changing the air filters, typically every 1-3 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions, will help keep the system running efficiently and extend its lifespan.

3. Clean Outdoor Unit: The outdoor unit of an HVAC system (the condenser unit) is exposed to outdoor elements, such as leaves, dust, and debris. Ensure that the unit is clean and free from obstructions. Regularly remove any debris and trim vegetation around the unit to allow for proper airflow.

4. Maintain Consistent Temperatures: Rapid temperature fluctuations can put stress on the HVAC system. It is recommended to set the thermostat to a consistent temperature and avoid frequent adjustments. This will allow the system to operate more efficiently and reduce unnecessary wear and tear.

5. Invest in Programmable Thermostats: Programmable thermostats allow you to set temperature schedules based on your daily routine. By automatically adjusting the temperature when no one is present or during sleeping hours, programmable thermostats help reduce energy consumption and give the HVAC system some rest, ultimately extending its lifespan.

6. Address Issues Promptly: If you notice any unusual sounds, strange odors, or inadequate heating/cooling, do not ignore them. These may be signs of underlying issues that, if left unaddressed, can lead to more significant problems and costly repairs. Contact a professional HVAC technician as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the problem.

Summary

Understanding the average lifespan of HVAC systems and implementing proper maintenance practices can help extend their longevity. Regular maintenance, changing air filters, cleaning the outdoor unit, maintaining consistent temperatures, utilizing programmable thermostats, and addressing issues promptly are all important factors in maximizing the lifespan of your HVAC system. By following these helpful tips, you can ensure that your HVAC system operates efficiently and provides comfort for many years to come.

Need HVAC Services in St. Louis, MO?

Keep cool or stay warm with Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. Since 1999, Ashley Brothers have been providing residential and commercial services to the St. Louis and Jefferson County area. We specialize in the installation of new equipment, heating and cooling repair, and furnace cleaning. Craftsmanship is important, equipment choice is too. We work with only top brands like Amana, Goodman, York, and McLain. It is understandable that replacing or upgrading your equipment can be daunting. Ask us about financing. We repair all heating and cooling equipment brands. Heating and cooling repairs can happen at random, take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service. Call us today about your concerns.

5 Reasons You Need an HVAC Maintenance Plan

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5 Reasons You Need an HVAC Maintenance Plan

The HVAC system in your home is a huge investment. That’s why it’s important to make sure that it’s always in good working order. Having an HVAC maintenance plan is a great way to keep your system running at peak performance and avoid costly repairs down the road. Here are 5 reasons you need to consider getting an HVAC maintenance plan:

Early Problem Detection

When it comes to HVAC systems, early problem detection is crucial. It means catching potential issues before they become a major repair bill or cause your family serious health risks. It also means avoiding problems that could lead to expensive replacements or repairs down the road, like carbon monoxide leaks. The good news is that smart analytics can be used to detect faults and problems in their earliest stages. This enables technicians to prevent breakdowns and reduce energy usage by 5-15%. This is a great advantage to anyone who wants their home or office to operate at peak efficiency and minimize their monthly utility bills. Especially if you have a young family or live in a climate where weather can be unpredictable, having an HVAC maintenance plan is essential to ensuring your system runs at its best.

Improved Energy Efficiency

When it comes to heating and cooling your home, it’s important that you have a system that can operate at peak efficiency. This can reduce your energy bills and keep you comfortable year-round. HVAC systems often require periodic inspections and maintenance to keep them running at optimal performance. Performing these tasks on a regular basis can help you save money on your energy bills and increase the lifespan of your HVAC system. When it comes to the air conditioning portion of your HVAC system, one of the most important steps is cleaning the coils. This ensures that the coils are free of dust and other debris that can reduce airflow and affect your system’s effectiveness.

Priority Service

When you sign up for a maintenance plan, you get priority service when it comes to HVAC issues. This is a big deal when you need air conditioning or heating urgently and want to avoid waiting in line for an appointment. A maintenance plan can also save you money in other ways. For example, many plans offer discounts on diagnostics and repairs that you might not otherwise get. In addition, most plans offer perks for joining the maintenance program, such as discounted rates for diagnostics and emergency services on weekends and holidays. This is especially important if you have young children or elderly family members who are prone to heat exhaustion in extreme temperatures.

Discounts On Repairs

When an HVAC maintenance plan is in place, you can get discounts on repairs that you might otherwise have to pay a lot for. Typically, these savings will come in the form of parts and labor discounts. These can add up to a substantial amount over time. Especially when you consider that most manufacturers require proof of annual maintenance before issuing an equipment warranty. Getting an HVAC service contract is one of the best ways to make sure your system stays in optimal condition and runs at peak efficiency for as long as possible. In addition, it can help you save money on energy bills year-round.

Maintain Equipment Warranty

Keeping up with annual maintenance of your equipment can help you avoid having to void your warranty in the future. Often, manufacturers will ask for documentation that your HVAC system has had routine maintenance performed, and neglecting this maintenance can have serious consequences. In many cases, your HVAC warranty can be void if you skip regular maintenance or use off-brand parts on your HVAC unit. For example, if you buy parts from an un-reputable company and install them on your unit, the manufacturer will not be able to guarantee that their product is working properly.

What Is Considered an HVAC Emergency?

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Many HVAC companies offer 24-hour emergency repair services for all models of HVAC systems. However, it’s important to note that not every HVAC problem should be considered an emergency.

Because it’s not always easy to distinguish between an emergency and a problem that can wait a few days to resolve, we put together this post with a few examples of actual HVAC emergencies.

Complete AC failure

While ceiling fans can help, a working air conditioner is a must-have to combat sweltering summers. Inside temperatures can even reach dangerous levels when the AC goes out in the middle of summer, especially for older folks, young children and pets. If your AC doesn’t turn on, be sure to call an emergency HVAC service right away.

No heat

When the heat stops working in the middle of the winter, it’s another time you’ll need to hire a professional to make an emergency call. Not having a working heater in the winter can also be dangerous for people and animals inside the house. While waiting for the HVAC repairman, bundle up with blankets, and utilize your fireplace if you have one.

Safety concerns

Gas or refrigerant leaks, sparks and smoke are a few signs that something is seriously wrong with your HVAC system, and the problem needs to be addressed right away. After calling HVAC companies to make an emergency repair, leave your house ASAP, and don’t return until the issue has been resolved. Hanging around waiting for the technician can be a serious health risk.

What are some signs of a failing system?

The good news is that HVAC systems typically don’t up and quit working out of nowhere—they often present a few signs that something’s amiss. These are a few indications that your system needs help:

Call Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling in any situation

Whether you’re experiencing an HVAC emergency or you just need a seasonal tune-up, be sure to call our team at Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling. With a wide range of services and fair pricing, we’re one of the top HVAC companies in St. Louis.

The Most Common HVAC Emergencies

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At Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling, we get calls all year long for HVAC emergency service in St. Louis, MO. Fortunately, a lot of these calls are similar, so we’re able to address the issue in no time at all.

Here are a few of the most common issues we deal with when it comes to heating systems and air conditioners.

Furnace emergencies

With colder temperatures on their way, now is the time to start thinking about ways your furnace could malfunction in the winter months. Common furnace emergencies include:

Air conditioner emergencies

A mid-summer AC breakdown could mean living in extreme discomfort until the problem is fixed. Here are a few of the top reasons we get calls in the warmer months:

Your trusted source for 24-hour emergency service

Whether your furnace has problems in the winter or your AC breaks down in the summer, call Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling any time of day or night. Our low prices and around-the-clock HVAC emergency service in St. Louis, MO, make us the number-one team in town for all of your heating and cooling needs.

How to Avoid HVAC Breakdowns

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Heater breakdowns in the winter and air conditioning malfunctions in the summer aren’t just inconveniences; they can be dangerous in some situations. The good news is that most of the common HVAC breakdowns we see are preventable!

If you’ve ever wondered, “How can I avoid HVAC breakdowns in St. Louis, MO?” here are some tips.

Schedule a seasonal tune-up

The best way to prevent a breakdown is to call an HVAC professional to service your system. Scheduling professional furnace maintenance each fall and AC tune-ups each spring are proven to reduce breakdowns.

During this service, your technician will inspect and clean your unit. If anything appears to be wrong, they’ll replace the failing component before you experience a sudden mid-season breakdown.

Change the filter

When homeowners call and ask us, “Why does my heater keep breaking down in St. Louis, MO?” it’s usually due to neglect. We don’t expect you to tune-up your system yourself. However, homeowners should at least replace their air filters once a month.

When air filters get clogged with dirt and debris, the whole unit can start to break down. Swapping out your filter regularly reduces the chance of unit failure and helps improve energy efficiency.

Open the vents

Closing vents when you’re not in a room might seem like a good way to save money during the winter. Unfortunately, closing those vents is generally a bad idea.

When vents are closed, the air intended to heat that room builds up in the ducts. That excess air puts undue pressure on both the ducts and vital components of your furnace. Ensure all of your vents are open and aren’t blocked by any furniture for optimal airflow.

Dust and vacuum

Another answer to that common question, “Why does my heater keep breaking down in St. Louis, MO?” is that your home isn’t very clean. When excess dust collects around air vents, it makes the vent ineffective—the vent might as well be closed!

To ensure that’s not a problem, make a habit of dusting and vacuuming to eliminate all of that dirt and debris and prevent excessive buildup.

Call when you suspect problems

HVAC systems rarely stop working out of the blue. They’ll often present a few signs that they’re going out before they finally kick the bucket. Loud noises, strange smells and higher energy bills are a few of the leading indications that something’s wrong. Pay attention to how your furnace is acting and call a professional as soon as you think something’s not right.

Replace old and inefficient units

It’s a fact that HVAC units are more prone to breakdowns as they age. If your system seems to fail each season, it’s probably time to cut your losses and replace it.

Although installing a new heater or air conditioner can be expensive, it usually pays for itself in just a few years! Newer units are more energy efficient, so you can slash your monthly heating and cooling costs and enjoy fewer breakdown bills.

Call us for HVAC service and repair

From replacing old units to performing seasonal maintenance, Ashley Brothers Heating and Cooling is the go-to company for all of your heating services. If you have more questions like “How can I avoid HVAC breakdowns in St. Louis, MO?” call us today to learn more or to schedule your yearly tune-up.