As climate change affects temperatures across the globe, people experience greater extremes in temperatures. Currently, the warmest years on record have occurred since 1998. Because your HVAC system does double duty by heating your home in winter and cooling it in summer, it's prone to wearing out more quickly, especially during extreme temperatures. Since the last thing you want is for your HVAC system to fail and be without the comfort you desire, it's good to know when your system is getting long in the tooth and replacing it before it breaks down. Here are the five most common signs that it's time to replace your aging HVAC. Increase in Running Time � As your HVAC unit ages, you may notice that it's running longer than it used to. As the system loses efficiency and starts breaking down, it must work harder to do the job, which means less comfort and higher energy bills. Loud Noise During Operation � It's normal for an HVAC system to get louder as it gets older; however, if you notice that the noise is something you've not heard before, such as grinding or squealing, it means it's probably time to replace your system. Frequent Repairs � Although many of the parts in your HVAC system are replaceable, if you notice that these repairs are coming more frequently, you should consider whether it's worth putting money into an old system or investing in something more reliable. Lack of Maintenance � With regular maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your system for a few years; however, if you're one of those people who have neglected your system for most of your ownership, it may be past the point of no return once it begins failing. Age � The average lifespan of an HVAC system is about 10years, and as mentioned, you may be able to stretch that with regular maintenance. However, once your system reaches the ten-year mark, plan on replacing it sooner rather than later with a more efficient system.