Common HVAC Problems Found in Older Homes in Charlotte, NC

You can get bargains on older homes in Charlotte, NC, such as more property than with newer constructions. However, older homes may have HVAC problems you may not have with a newer home. Keep an eye open for these HVAC issues commonly found in older homes.

An Aging System

Aging HVAC systems are one of the most common issues found with older homes. Many people wait until a system has suffered a catastrophic failure before replacing it. The challenge is that as systems age, they experience more repairs and less efficiency.

An average furnace should have a service life of 15 to 20 years and an air conditioner of 10 to 15 years. Systems over 20 years old were less efficient when they were new than more recent models. Take into account the degraded efficiency due to age, and you’ll realize that an older system is significantly less efficient than newer models.

Restricted Airflow

Older homes may also have poorly designed ductwork or ducts made from outdated materials. This prevents your system from creating the circulation needed to effectively heat and cool your space. Additionally, years’ worth of dust, dirt, hair, and more may clog the ducts you have in your older home.

Redesigning your duct system may improve the circulation throughout your home. It may also replace antiquated ducting material with a newer, more efficient option. Plus, with a new duct system, you can properly seal and insulate the areas needed to further improve efficiency.

Poor Air Quality

Older homes are notorious for having poor air quality, which inevitably becomes an HVAC problem. The poor air quality comes from older construction materials that are breaking down, adding to your home’s dust.

Additionally, older homes tend to have more contaminants in the HVAC system. As the air circulates through, it picks up some of these particles and puts them back into your home’s air. These additional contaminants inevitably further strain your system, resulting in higher utility bills as well as more AC and furnace repairs.

Outdated Thermostat

Along with aging systems, older homes may also have outdated thermostats. If your thermostat still uses the old mercury switch, you’ll want to upgrade to a new digital model. These allow you to also set a program to adjust your temperature when you’re not at home, increasing the system’s efficiency.

Thermostats have an expected service life of 10 to 15 years, which is about the same as your air conditioner. As it approaches that age, the temperature sensor loses its sensitivity, leaving your system less efficient.

Don’t let your HVAC system cause additional problems in your older home. Call to schedule your AC maintenance, installation, or repair appointment with our knowledgeable technicians at Lakeside Heating & Air Conditioning.