Read reviews
Updated: September 2, 2024
If you own an older home, some more unique and often unnoticed problems can affect your HVAC system, your health and your wallet.
It’s important to keep up with regular AC maintenance checkups to keep your system working smoothly, but it’s also a good idea to educate yourself on the following common issues that may be affecting you and the air in your home.
Insufficient Insulation
Older homes tend to have a pretty thin layer of insulation in the walls and attic, making it hard to keep warm air in during the winter and cool air in when it’s hot. Without sufficient insulation, you’ll find yourself paying high energy bills because your system isn’t running efficiently.
Restricted Air Flow
Air ducts have a lifespan of about 15-20 years, but they need to be professionally checked and cleaned yearly in order to ensure the airflow through your home and system is as it should be. Over time, debris builds up and moisture gets trapped in your ducts, creating an ideal environment for bacteria, fungus and other contaminants to grow.
Poor Air Quality
Not only does buildup block your airflow, but it also increases allergens in the air in your home. If your ducts aren’t properly cleaned, you can end up with more allergy and asthma issues and poor health from the contaminants being blown through your vents.
The other factor that can decrease your home’s air quality is outside air leaking in through gaps and cracks in your doors, windows, attic spaces and floors. The more outside air that’s coming in, the more pollutants your home’s air will have.
Consider getting monitors for toxic gases such as carbon monoxide and radon. These two contaminants are both impossible to detect with your senses but very harmful and even deadly if left unnoticed. On their website, Contractors from Hell warns:
Radon exposure can be a particular problem in older homes. It’s colorless, tasteless, and odorless, and it’s the second leading contributor to lung cancer. It’s likely second to carbon monoxide in terms of dangerous residential gases.
More Maintenance
Generally, the older your system is the more you’re going to have to keep up with regular maintenance checks and repairs. Sometimes you can catch strange noises or odors quickly enough to avoid larger repairs, but you may not always be so lucky.
If you notice anything unusual about your HVAC system or your home’s air, call a professional HVAC technician to take a look.
At Richmond’s Air, our certified Houston HVAC technicians can diagnose the problem quickly and get your system running again. If it’s time to look at replacing your HVAC unit, we can help you find one that will fit your needs the best.
Further reading:
