An aging HVAC system can cost you more money and lead to breakdowns in the middle of summer or winter. If your furnace and AC are starting to get older, here are three signs it might be time to make an upgrade.

1. Age

There’s no getting around the fact that you can’t make your furnace and AC last forever. Even your ducts can eventually start to fail when you’ve been using your heating and cooling for a long time. Based on our industry knowledge, a furnace or AC will last about 15 to 20 years, but it’s up to you to stay on top of routine maintenance. According to Energy Saver, keeping foliage at least two feet away from your AC and cleaning it regularly can help improve airflow to the condenser. However, if you have an older AC that you haven’t maintained in several years, there’s a good chance it’s time for an upgrade.

2. Lack of Maintenance

Routine maintenance is one of the best things you can do to get the most bang for your buck when it comes to your HVAC system. Seasonal maintenance should be performed during the spring and fall when you’re not using your heating and cooling as much. During seasonal maintenance, you’ll have your air filter changed and your furnace and AC cleaned and inspected. If you haven’t scheduled maintenance in quite a while, now is a good time to call your local heating and cooling company to have your furnace and AC replaced.

3. Poor Efficiency

Heating and cooling your home isn’t always cheap, but it shouldn’t cost a fortune either. If you notice your energy bill has suddenly shot up, you might have a problem with your furnace or AC. From clogged air filters and dirty ducts to refrigerant leaks and clogged condensate lines, there are several issues that can reduce efficiency. If you do all the simple stuff and you’re still spending too much to heat or cool your home, it’s time for an upgrade.

It’s your job as a homeowner to keep an eye on everything in your home to make sure it’s in good condition. Your furnace and AC are especially important if you want to keep your home at a comfortable temperature all year long. If you’re not sure if it’s time to upgrade, call Hanson Heating and have an HVAC technician take a look at your system today.