Old houses have a special character and history that adds to their allure. However, these characteristics can be easily undermined by HVAC troubles. Let’s take a look at some of the most typical HVAC problems that arise in older houses in Kunkletown, PA.
1. Poor Air Quality
It’s not unusual for older houses to have a musty odor. If you haven’t upgraded your HVAC system in a long time, you’re likely using outdated equipment or units that are far less effective than their modern counterparts. As a result, your older HVAC system is most likely less effective at keeping warm air inside and cold air outside during the winter.
Also, allowing outdoor air into your home can affect the humidity inside as well as expose the interior to speciļ¬c contaminants. These pollutants can cause trigger allergies and cause other health problems like congestion and respiratory issues. The best solution is to update your HVAC system and make sure there are no gaps in your house where air can leak out or come in.
2. Poor Airflow
Air ducts are essential for circulating warm and cool air throughout your home, making sure that the inside is evenly heated and cooled. Ductwork has a longer lifespan than heating and cooling systems. Cleaning and regular maintenance are critical to the longevity of your air ducts, so have them cleaned regularly. Air duct cleaning removes allergens, dust and other microorganisms that can clog the airflow throughout the house and prevent your rooms from receiving the warm air they need for proper heating in winter.
3. Outdated Thermostat
Old houses in Kunkletown, PA, often have older thermostats that are much less effective than the present high-tech models. Today’s thermostats enable your HVAC unit to adapt to indoor and outdoor temperatures, personal heating and cooling preferences and even daily schedules.
Instead of using one of today’s Wi-Fi-controlled thermostats, your older home most probably has a simple thermostat. It could even be in the wrong place for proper functioning, reducing the effectiveness of your HVAC system entirely. If you’ve realized that your unit regularly cycles during the day or that it can’t reach your preferred set temperature, it’s time to replace your thermostat!
4. Old HVAC System
A typical HVAC system has a lifespan of 15 years. If you’ve just bought an old house and are unsure whether the former owners conducted annual maintenance inspections, you should schedule a maintenance appointment to determine its approximate age and effectiveness.
Systems that cycle in and out more frequently run for longer periods to heat and cool your space. Poor maintenance will cost you a lot and may not provide you with the desired level of comfort. An upgrade will most likely save you cash and effort in the long run.
5. Lack of Zoning
Old houses typically have only one thermostat that regulates the internal temperature of the entire house. Since older HVAC units don’t allow you to define zones with concise controls, you have less influence over cooling and circulation.
When using today’s advanced HVAC units with zoning, you have total control. You can heat or cool only the spaces that are in use, like bedrooms at night. With a modern HVAC unit, you won’t have to cool empty spaces, so you’ll save money on energy bills.
6. Leaking Ductwork
If an old home’s ductwork isn’t configured properly or has started to leak, you’re wasting money and energy every time you turn on your HVAC system. Leaking ducts can waste warm or cool air that should be circulating through your house, costing you cash.
Owning an older home in Kunkletown, PA, can be an enjoyable experience, and updating its outdated HVAC equipment can make it even more so. For all your HVAC repair, maintenance and installation needs, you can rely on Sullivan Oil & Propane, so contact us today to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help you keep living comfortably in your vintage house.
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