Deciding Between HVAC replacement or HVAC repair

During the fall, it is not unusual to have temperature swings that require both the air conditioning and heater on the same day. This highlights how dependent we have become on our HVAC system for comfort and health, and it would be terrible to do without it for several days or weeks.

Whenever a repair is necessary, it might elicit some concern about eventual replacement. How will you know when it is time to replace rather than repair the system? Here are the top HVAC replacement vs HVAC Repair indicators that will help you make a wise decision when that time comes.

Know the Age of Your System

Major air conditioner components have an average lifespan of 15 years, while furnace components will last a little longer, about 20 years. If you know when your system was installed, it will give you an idea of when the system should be replaced. While it is possible to replace the air conditioner without changing the furnace, it is most common to replace both at once.

Technological Advances

In recent years, researchers have produced advanced refrigerant gases—the key to air conditioning and heat pump heating. Older gases have been determined to be hazardous to the environment and will no longer be manufactured.

Therefore, if your aging system leaks an outdated refrigerant gas, replacement may be quite expensive or impossible. If you need to determine the refrigerant gas of your system, research the make and model number online.

If your system is ten years old or older, technological advances in new systems will significantly reduce energy consumption and therefore reduce the cost of heating/cooling.

Incentives

Government agencies and local utilities offer financial incentives for replacing aging systems. Government agencies are encouraging lower carbon emissions. Local utilities can reduce their cost by producing less energy. One HVAC system with improved efficiency does not make a difference, but encouraging many improved systems will make a difference.

These incentives will not cover the entire cost of a system replacement, but they will definitely help most family budgets.

HVAC Replacement or HVAC Repair Costs

Complex repair cost calculators are available but are not necessary. A few indicators will help you determine that the required repair is too expensive.

• First, determine the replacement cost for your current system, including installation cost. A ballpark figure is sufficient.
• Second, record the timing and cost of various repairs over time. Do not include costs for maintenance or cleaning calls since these should be scheduled for both existing and new systems.
• Third, watch for components that need to be replaced every year or so, or one repair that leads to another, more expensive repair.
• Finally, as the system ages, anticipate a major, expensive repair that rivals the cost of replacement.

These indicators should prepare a homeowner to determine when a repair is too expensive.

Family Comfort

An aging system may also lose efficiency to the point where your family is uncomfortable—too hot in the summer or too cool in the winter—may be the deciding factor in your decision. An aging system may also negatively impact the indoor air quality in a home, making the space uncomfortably humid, dry, or have a musty smell.

These factors will give homeowners adequate information for deciding to forgo the repair in favor of a system replacement.

Trying to decide between an HVAC replacement or an HVAC repair? We can help!

With our four decades of experience as a Houston HVAC Upgrade and furnace maintenance contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to assist with your HVAC Replacement needs.

We have several financing options available with great options with up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call us today at  281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your AC repairs, Tune-up maintenance, and needs for HVAC Replacement.