Here’s a riddle for you. What keeps you hot during chilly winters and cool during sweltering summers?
You guessed it — your indoor temperature system!
Unfortunately, just like any other system or appliance, this bad boy also wears down over time and needs regular maintenance to keep working effectively. However, there comes a time when repairs alone are not sufficient, and the system needs to be replaced altogether. Recognizing this point can help you avoid wasting money on useless repairs. So, what are the signs that it’s time for a replacement? And how can you go about installing one?
Let’s find out!
What are the main components of your indoor temperature system?
The main components of an indoor temperature system are the thermostat, furnace, and air conditioner. The thermostat works as the control centre, telling your other temperature components when to turn on or off in order to achieve the desired temperature level.
The furnace provides heat during winters by burning fuel such as natural gas, oil, or propane. The air conditioner, on the other hand, removes heat from indoor air to cool it down during hot summer days.
In addition to these three main components, an indoor temperature system may also include a humidifier (or dehumidifier) and an air purifier. A good quality thermostat can be programmed to regulate all of these components in order to maintain a comfortable living environment.
7 signs you need to replace your indoor temperature system No matter how well-maintained your temperature system is, it will eventually wear out and need to be replaced.
Here are 7 signs that are going to tell you it’s time for sustainable air conditioning replacement.
- Your indoor temperature system is more than 10 years old
If any component of your indoor temperature system is more than 10 years old, it’s time to consider replacing it. The longer you wait, the more problems you’ll end up having.
Plus, with newer models being much more energy-efficient than their predecessors, a replacement will help you save money on your energy bills as well. For example, according to an estimate by Finance Guru, replacing an old air conditioner with a new one can save you up to 40% on cooling costs!
You can then use these saved funds on other fun activities like dining out with your kids.
- You’re noticing sudden increases in utility bills
Unexpected jumps in energy bills can indicate that your system is not running as efficiently as before, and may need to be replaced in order to save money. In this case, the first thing to check should be your thermostat.
- You hear strange noises from the components
Abnormal sounds such as grinding or rattling usually mean that the parts of your unit have worn out and must be replaced.
- There are uneven temperatures in different rooms
If some parts of your home are hotter or colder than others, it could be a sign that your system is having trouble keeping the temperature consistent throughout.
- Your system isn’t providing adequate cooling and heating
When components such as the blower or compressor break down, you may not get enough cooling in summer or heating in winter. This indicates it might be time to replace the system.
- You see signs of mould or mildew around your components
A malfunctioning air conditioner can leave moisture in the air that creates a perfect environment for mould and mildew growth.
The presence of mould not only poses health risks but also contributes to unpleasant odours.
- Your indoor temperature system requires frequent repairs
Frequent breakdowns are a sign that something’s not quite right with your temperature system. This is especially true if the repairs are on the costly side and you don’t want to keep shelling out money on them.
In such cases, it may make more economic sense to invest in a new, more energy-efficient system than to keep spending money on repairing an old one.
How to replace your indoor temperature system
When you know that it’s time to replace your indoor temperature system, the next step is to figure out how exactly to go about doing so.
If the problem is related to either your furnace or air conditioning unit, it’s recommended that you call in a professional technician. They’ll be able to accurately diagnose the issue and install a new system for you.
On the other hand, if the problem is with the thermostat, then you can try replacing it yourself. Let’s take a look at how you can do that.
- Step 1: Turn off the power
Before you begin, make sure to turn off the power to your thermostat by switching off the breaker in your home’s main electrical panel.
This will help avoid any potential shock or electricity-related accidents.
- Step 2: Remove the cover
Once the power is off, remove the old thermostat’s cover and unscrew it from its mounting bracket.
Then, detach all the wires from their respective terminals and make sure to note down which wire is connected to what terminal. This will help you connect the new thermostat correctly.
- Step 3: Unscrew the old thermostat
Unscrew the screws that are holding the thermostat in place and carefully remove it from the wall.
Note: If your old thermostat has mercury switches, make sure to dispose of them according to local laws and regulations.
- Step 4: Install a new thermostat baseplate
The next step is to install the new thermostat base plate in the same spot where you removed the old one. Use a level to make sure it’s mounted correctly.
- Step 5: Connect the wires
Now, take the wires that you had removed from your old thermostat and connect them to their respective terminals on the new one. Refer to your notes if you can’t remember which wire goes where.
- Step 6: Secure the new thermostat
Once all the wires are connected, secure the new thermostat in place by using screws.
- Step 7: Test your system
Now that you have installed your new thermostat, it’s time to test your system. Turn on the power and set up the thermostat according to your needs.
That’s it folks! You’ve successfully replaced your thermostat.
