When to Replace Your HVAC Equipment

Whether you're preparing for a new home or have recently moved into an older house, replacing your HVAC equipment can be an important investment. There are several factors that should be considered before deciding whether to repair or replace your system.

Age of the HVAC unit

While many heating and air conditioning units last well over a decade with proper maintenance, they may start to show signs of wear and tear after 10 years. If you have an older system, replace it to help lower your energy bills and increase your comfort levels throughout the year.

Smelly ductwork

If you notice that your ductwork smells a lot, this could be a sign that your current system is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced. Besides having a foul odor, the ductwork might also be causing your system to work harder than it should, which will lead to high energy bills.

Loud noises from your HVAC equipment

If your air conditioner or furnace makes loud noises, this could be a sign that it's struggling to keep your house cool. Usually, these sounds are caused by a motor breaking down or a refrigerant leak. If you hear these noises, you should call a professional HVAC contractor to come inspect the system.

Frequent maintenance

If your HVAC system needs frequent repairs, this could be a sign that it's time to replace it. Typically, an HVAC unit should only need to be serviced once every two years, but if you find that you're spending a significant amount of money on maintenance each year, it may be time to replace your old system.

Cost of repairs versus replacement

A commonly used formula in the HVAC industry is that when the total costs of repair exceeds five percent of the equipment's age, it's time to replace it. This is because repairs tend to get more expensive as the system ages, and the cost of repair can sometimes offset the savings that come from a newer system.

Energy efficiency

The energy efficiency rating of your system is another important factor in determining whether it's time to replace your unit. As a general rule, newer systems have higher efficiency ratings than their older counterparts, which can significantly cut your energy bill over time.

In addition to being more energy efficient, newer HVAC models can be more quiet and less noisy than their predecessors. Heater repair can make a huge difference in your home's overall comfort level.

Your budget

The price of installing a new system is usually the biggest out-of-pocket expense when you're considering HVAC equipment replacement. Fortunately, there are many ways to save on this expense, including searching for manufacturer rebates and finding an experienced HVAC installation company through word of mouth.

If you decide to purchase a new unit, you should shop for one with an Energy Star rating. These units are more energy efficient than their counterparts, and can often save you up to 20 percent on your monthly utility bills.

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