If you have an older home in Bradenton, Florida, you may be dealing with some common HVAC problems. Many of the houses built earlier don’t have the same zoning and duct options, which can result in issues with airflow and comfort.
Indoor Air Quality
One of the biggest problems that older homeowners face is the quality of the indoor air. In the past, the building codes weren’t as strict, so builders didn’t have to follow stringent standards to seal houses from outdoor air coming inside. The air from outside often brings contaminants, which can decrease its quality and make you and your family sick. You could notice symptoms like headaches, congestion, sore throats, and trouble breathing.
To improve the seals to the outside, replace the windows with double-paned units and add new weatherstripping around the doors that lead outdoors. It’s also smart to have an expert check the insulation and make sure it’s sufficient. Changing the HVAC air filter can also help reduce the contaminants in the air.
Poor Airflow
The air ducts within your HVAC system will last longer than the furnace or air conditioner. But leaving outdated ducts can create problems with airflow, especially since homes built more than a few decades ago won’t have the same standards for proper HVAC system design. You may also notice an increase in utility bills, due to an old and inefficient system.
If your HVAC system is more than 15 years old, it’s probably time for a replacement. Updating to a more modern HVAC system will offer better efficiency and lower bills. Replacing older ducts is also a smart option to improve airflow. If you can’t fit that into the budget right away, at least schedule a duct cleaning service to remove all dirt and debris that has built up over time.
At Climatic, we specialize in HVAC solutions for owners of older homes, so call us at (941) 758-3080.
Image provided by Shutterstock
