Your thermostat plays a critical role in maintaining the comfort and energy efficiency of your home throughout the year, but like any technology, it doesn’t last forever. If your current model is outdated, inconsistent, or lacking the modern features you want or need, it may be time to upgrade your thermostat.

Today’s advanced thermostats offer far more than just temperature control. But how do you know when it’s the right time to make the switch? And with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Before you invest in a new device, it’s important to weigh your options carefully.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through six key factors to consider before you upgrade your thermostat to ensure you’re making the best choice for your home. 

1. The Age of Your Thermostat

Your thermostat has an anticipated lifespan of about 10 years. While a 10-year-old thermostat will still run your system, it may not be as efficient as more modern, smart thermostat devices. You may find that as it approaches this mark, it begins to malfunction more frequently, the batteries die more easily, or it isn’t as reliable as it once was.

If you’re tired of dealing with an older device that can’t quite keep up with your home’s needs, it may be the perfect time to upgrade your thermostat. An upgraded device will help you avoid malfunctions, keep your home more comfortable, and boost your property’s energy efficiency, helping to lower your monthly energy bills.

2. Your Energy Efficiency Needs

As mentioned above, your thermostat plays a major role in your home’s energy efficiency. Unlike some more modern devices, your existing thermostat may not be programmable from your phone or tablet. This means it is your responsibility to raise or lower temperatures before leaving your home or while you’re at work. 

When you upgrade your thermostat to a newer device, you can teach it your schedule, allowing it to adjust temperatures and help you maintain a more energy-efficient space. Additionally, these devices often come with an app that allows you to set the temperature of your home, even when you’re not there, leading to lower monthly bills. 

3. Inconsistent Heating or Cooling

Your thermostat’s job is to ensure your home reaches and maintains your chosen temperature. When it is functioning properly, you shouldn’t deal with inconsistent temperatures in different rooms throughout your home. If you are noticing cold or warm spots throughout your home, this might indicate a problem with your thermostat. 

Whether in an improper location, wiring problems, or a malfunctioning sensor, choosing to upgrade your thermostat can address them all. With an upgraded smart thermostat, you can trust that these warm or cold spots will be a thing of the past, and you’ll be more comfortable in every room across your property. 

4. A Constantly Running HVAC System

If your home is too warm or cool and you’re trying to adjust the temperature, you may switch on your heater or air conditioner. Once it’s turned on, your HVAC system should be able to quickly adjust the temperature of your home, helping you feel more comfortable in your space. However, if your HVAC system isn’t ever shutting off, this may be a sign of a problem.

Your existing thermostat may be struggling to read the temperature of the home, or there may be wiring problems within the device. If this is the case, it may be best to upgrade your thermostat. Replacing the device can help you address any problems within it, ensuring the system turns off when your home reaches your desired temperature. 

5. An Unresponsive Device

If your thermostat has become unresponsive, it may be time to consider an upgrade. A lack of response, whether it’s delayed input recognition, frozen screens, or failure to turn your HVAC system on or off, can signal that your device is outdated or malfunctioning. Older thermostats may struggle to keep up with modern heating and cooling systems or suffer from worn-out wiring and failing components. 

Upgrading to a newer model, especially a smart thermostat, can restore reliability and offer better control, energy efficiency, and advanced features like remote access and learning capabilities. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, investing in a new thermostat can improve your home’s comfort, prevent future disruptions, and even lower your energy bills over time.

6. Inaccurate Temperature Readings

It isn’t uncommon for your thermostat to read the temperature a degree or two differently than another thermometer in your home. However, if your thermostat is struggling to accurately read the temperature in your home or there is an extreme variation in readings, this is a clear sign of a sensor problem within the system. 

When your thermostat is having a difficult time reading your home’s temperature, this may mean your HVAC system won’t turn on or won’t turn off. Either way, this can lead to major discomfort in your home and is an indication that it is the perfect time for you to turn to a trusted HVAC professional to upgrade your thermostat. 

Let R&D Heating & Air Upgrade Your Thermostat

If your older device is struggling to keep up with your needs, it may be time to consider talking to a trusted HVAC professional. When you’re ready to upgrade your thermostat in your Roy, Utah, home, turn to our team at R&D Heating & Air for support. With decades of experience, we’re confident that we can find the perfect thermostat for your property. 

If you’re ready to upgrade your thermostat or have questions about our other services, don’t hesitate to contact us today for support. 

When it comes to heating and cooling your home, comfort, efficiency, and flexibility are always a top priority. But, if your home doesn’t have traditional ductwork, you may worry that you have limited or inefficient options. While you may be concerned about the lack of options, a ductless mini-split air conditioner is a great way to keep your home comfortable this summer. 

These powerful, energy-efficient devices are the perfect solution for duct-free homes. If you’re considering cooling options for your home before the warmer summer weather rolls into town, keep reading to learn more about why a ductless mini-split air conditioner might be the smartest investment you can make. 

What is a Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner? 

A ductless mini-split air conditioner, also known as a ductless mini-split system, is a type of heating and cooling unit that does not rely on standard ductwork. Instead, this device consists of an outdoor compressor and an indoor unit. These two units are connected by a series of lines and conduits that provide adequate drainage and power.

Ductless mini-split air conditioners offer cooling and heating capabilities and are the ideal solution for targeted climate control. If you live in an older home, it may not have the appropriate ductwork to support a standard air conditioner. Instead of investing thousands of dollars in duct installation, a ductless mini-split air conditioner is the perfect choice for your home. 

The Benefits of a Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner

No Need For Ductwork

One of the most significant benefits of investing in a ductless mini-split air conditioner is that the system requires no ductwork. It can be incredibly costly to install ductwork in older homes built before central HVAC systems were common. The same can be said about home additions, garages, and finished basements where extending ductwork isn’t practical. Mini-split systems eliminate this issue, delivering air directly to the rooms without tearing into walls, ceilings, or floors. 

Exceptional Energy Efficiency

Ductless mini-split air conditioners are a smarter, more energy-efficient way to cool your home as temperatures outside spike. Unlike traditional systems that can lose over 30% of energy through ductwork, especially in hot attics or chilly crawl spaces, mini-splits deliver air directly where it’s needed. Plus, most models use advanced inverter technology to adjust cooling power automatically, helping you save on energy bills while keeping your home consistently comfortable.

Zoned Comfort and Temperature Control

One great benefit of investing in a ductless mini split is the option for zoned temperature control. Each indoor unit operates independently, meaning you can set different temperatures for different rooms or zones. This is particularly beneficial for larger homes, homes with multiple occupants with varying comfort preferences, or rooms that aren’t regularly used. Additionally, if you’ve recently built a home addition, this is a great way to heat and cool the space without needing to invest in a standard air conditioner as well. 

Quiet Operation

Mini-split air conditioners are known for being remarkably quiet. Indoor air handlers operate at a lower decibel level than some other air conditioners on the market and are often quieter than refrigerators. The compressor unit remains outside, helping reduce indoor noise. Their sleek, compact design allows them to be mounted high on a wall, suspended from the ceiling. If you’re easily irritated by the sounds of operating devices, this makes them the perfect choice. 

Year-Round Comfort

Many ductless mini-split air conditioners also function as a heating device. This dual function makes them the perfect all-in-one heating and cooling solution for year-round indoor comfort. A mini-split system can keep your space at the ideal temperature, whether you’re facing a scorching hot summer day or an extremely cold winter night. This dual functionality is especially beneficial in homes without any centralized HVAC system, as it reduces the need for separate heating units or space heaters. 

Quick, Easy Installation

If you’re considering investing in an enhanced HVAC upgrade, time is an important factor to consider. While you might want a standard air conditioner, the time needed to install ducts beforehand can make this an unappealing option. Instead, you can trust that installing a ductless mini-split air conditioner will be much faster. There are far fewer parts associated with this device, making it the perfect home upgrade if you’re trying to get the unit installed before summer weather hits its peak. 

Improved Indoor Air Quality

The ductwork in traditional systems may be home to dust, allergens, mold, and other irritating contaminants, which then circulate through your home. With no ducts to maintain, a ductless mini-split air conditioner has fewer respiratory irritation risks. Many mini-split models come with advanced filtration systems that capture airborne particles, creating a cleaner and healthier indoor environment and improved indoor air quality. This can be especially useful for families with allergies or increased respiratory concerns. 

Long-Term Savings 

While the upfront cost of a ductless mini-split air conditioner may be higher than a standard window unit or baseboard heater, the long-term energy savings can be substantial. Because they operate so efficiently and avoid the energy loss of ducted systems, they tend to pay for themselves through lower monthly energy bills. In addition, some states and utility companies may offer rebates and incentives for installing a more energy-efficient HVAC system, which can help offset the initial cost. 

A Smart Investment from R & D Heating & Air

For homeowners without existing ductwork, a ductless mini split air conditioner offers an unbeatable combination of efficiency, versatility, and comfort. If you’re looking for a reliable HVAC team near Roy, Utah, to help you through the installation process, turn to our R & D Heating & Air team for support.

With decades of experience providing Northern Utah residents with the most reliable HVAC services, we’re confident we can do the same for you. With this upgrade installed in your home, you can trust that Utah’s harsh winters and blazing summers won’t impact your indoor comfort. 

If you want to learn more about our ductless mini-split air conditioners or schedule installation, don’t hesitate to contact us today. 

Buying a new home is an incredibly exciting step for your family, especially if you’re purchasing your first home. Whether you previously lived in an apartment or a rental home, you might not have been responsible for maintaining your HVAC system. Instead, you may have relied on your landlord to take care of these systems. 

While this might seem intimidating, there are several easy ways for new homeowners to ensure their HVAC systems stay in great condition. If you’re about to move into your first home, keep reading to learn more about how our team recommends new homeowners maintain their systems to ensure comfort year-round. 

What HVAC System Do You Have In Your Home? 

The first step in caring for your HVAC system as a new homeowner is to understand what type of HVAC system you have in your home. There are a few different systems, depending on your home’s layout. Some of the most common HVAC systems you may encounter in your new home include standard heaters, air conditioners, and ductless mini-split systems. 

Standard heaters and air conditioners are the most common setups in homes, especially when moving into a new construction home. However, if you live in an older home without air ducts, you may have a ductless mini-split. This system hangs on your walls and has an accompanying outdoor unit that heats and cools your home throughout the year. 

Keep the Outdoor Unit Clean

As the seasons change and you prepare to switch from one system to another, it’s a good idea for new homeowners to pay close attention to the outdoor unit. When inclement weather rolls into town, wind, rain, and snow can leave these units covered in debris. While this might not seem like a problem, it can lead to functional problems during regular use. 

Make sure to trim any surrounding trees and bushes. Additionally, remove any loose organic debris like leaves and grass clippings. You may also want to consider building a barrier that prevents a great deal of debris from accumulating across the system, as this can make seasonal cleanup much easier. 

Schedule Twice-Yealy Professional Maintenance

The easiest way for new homeowners to care for their HVAC system is by scheduling twice-yearly maintenance with a trusted HVAC professional. While there is some maintenance you can perform yourself, like changing air filters, other, more complex maintenance should be performed by trained and licensed professionals.

Attempting to maintain your system without proper training or experience may result in further problems. You may miss minor problems within the system that a professional would catch, leading to further system damage down the line. If you want to avoid this damage altogether, it’s essential that you schedule professional maintenance. 

When to Replace Your HVAC System

While maintenance is a great way to keep your system in great condition, they are not infallible. Over time, the components within your system may deteriorate and you’ll need to plan for replacement. Your system has an anticipated lifespan of 20-30 years. If your system is regularly breaking down, this might signal that it’s time for replacement. 

Although you may want to put off this replacement as a new homeowner, it may ultimately cost far more to continue repairing the same system continuously. Not only will replacing your HVAC system save you money on repairs, but it will also run more efficiently than older systems, saving you money on your home’s monthly energy bills. 

Supporting New Homeowners Across Roy and Beyond

As a new homeowner, staying on top of your HVAC system’s maintenance will save you time, money, and stress down the road. With simple tasks like changing filters, keeping vents clear, and scheduling regular maintenance appointments, you can enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient home for years to come.

Whether you’re a new homeowner or a long-term resident, our R&D Heating & Air team is ready to support you through your HVAC journey. From simple filter changes to maintenance, repairs, and replacement, we’re here to do it all.

If you’d like to learn more about our HVAC services or schedule an appointment with our team, contact us today.