Most people are asking if they should replace or repair their HVAC. To answer this question, there are several questions that you need to weigh before making that decision.
One of the most crucial factors is the lifespan of your HVAC. An A.C. unit can probably last between 15 to 20 years, according to EnergyStar. A heat pump can endure for 16 years on average. While a furnace can be fully functional between 15 to 20 years.
If you want your heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems to work properly, then there should be regular maintenance. During their lifespan, some repairs and tune-ups might be needed at some point. Nevertheless, even if your HVAC system has gone through preventive maintenance, there will come a time when repairs are not sufficient anymore and the unit must be replaced.
Keep in mind that a complete heating or AC system replacement can be expensive. Hence, before getting them replaced, you might want to consider getting your old system repaired. In most circumstances, you can get your furnace or AC system repaired so that it can still function effectively.
Furthermore, even if you can get your unit repaired, just like continuously spending money on getting your old car repaired, it might be a good idea to a new unit at some point. The following guide can help you in making that decision.
Should You Replace or Repair Your Home Heating System?
Generally, most homeowners have encountered a malfunction in their heating system at some point. What if on a cold morning, you raised the thermostat of your heating system, like you usually do, however, this time, you did not get any response?
You can’t feel the air vents or radiators generating any heat or hear the system firing up. You are hoping that it only requires a quick fix, for instance, a tripped circuit breaker or a clogged filter.
But, on the other hand, you are also wondering if it would be wise to simply replace the unit, which can be more cost-effective. The following are some of the important considerations when faced with the dilemma of repairing or replacing your HVAC.
Lifespan
The next thing to consider is the age of your HVAC unit. As mentioned earlier, the average lifespan of a furnace is between 15 to 20 years. In some instances, the licensed and skilled technician will take note of the installation date by writing it down on the unit.
Otherwise, you can look for a metal identification plate inside the chamber door. This plate contains the model and serial numbers of the unit. Get in touch with the manufacturer’s customer service and inquire about the manufacture date of your unit.
In case your unit is already more than 20 years old, then it does not mean that you have to throw it away. Take note that these predicted HVAC life expectancy dates are merely averages. In other words, some of these units might still be working efficiently while others are already burned out by this date. Hence, although these are the average numbers, they are not applicable to all units.
There are other factors that can influence the longevity of your HVAC system. For instance, your unit will likely last longer than expected if during those winter months, you were not at home and your furnace is not working the same as it did if you were at home during those winter months.
Safety
Most likely, your main concern is safety. In case your heating system is already showing safety hazards, then it would be worth replacing it, especially if the repair is only temporary and can be costly.
For instance, if your furnace already has a cracked heat exchanger it could leak poisonous carbon monoxide and spread throughout the entire house, which could be fatal.
Obviously, this is something that you don’t want to risk for. However, simpler things such as faulty wiring or stuck valves are much easier to repair. Still, it would be a good idea to make a cost-benefit analysis and consult a reliable HVAC company to make sure that you are making the best decision.
Heating Efficiency
In case your heating system is not working effectively, it won’t be able to heat your home properly. This could be an indication that your heater is already inefficient, especially if you notice that there are some rooms in your house that are not heated as expected.
If you are using an older system, then it would probably be having difficulty in providing sufficient heat for the entire house. You will know this if you can feel that some rooms are warmer compared to others.
Other Important Considerations
Comparing Repair and Replacement Costs
Buying a new furnace or boiler requires a substantial amount, however, the repair costs can also be costly. Aside from because it is possible that the same problem could occur again or more work might be needed in the future. You might consider replacing your heating system only if the repair cost is more than half of the replacement costs.
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)
Most likely, older units will require more fuel due to their inefficiencies. This could lead to a larger carbon footprint in your house, not to mention higher bills as well. Most probably, if you are using an older heating system, then its AFUE would be less than 65 percent.
Tax Incentives and Manufacturer Rebates
By taking advantage of the tax incentives and manufacturer rebates for energy-efficient heating units, you could save some money on newer units.
Should You Replace or Repair Your Home Cooling System?
Regarding air conditioning systems, a lot has been changed and this includes modifications in the government environmental regulations as well as improvements in technology.
In case your unit entirely breaks down or does not provide enough cool air, the way it used to be, it might be a worthy investment if you get a replacement rather than spending more for its repairs. The following are some of the important factors to consider when deciding to replace or repair your home cooling system:
Usage of R-22 Freon
To conserve energy, the federal government decided to phase out Freon all over the country. As a result, the cost of Freon is growing significantly. If Freon is used by your current AC unit, then you’ll have to replace it with the new R410A refrigerant.
In case you are experiencing a breakdown or encounter issues that require more Freon, then it would be ideal to consider replacing your unit. In addition, it is a requirement for manufacturers to utilize a non-ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbon refrigerant.
Also, keep in mind that a new unit could make you feel more comfortable and cooler, at the same time, it only consumes less electricity compared to your older unit.
Age of the Unit
Just like your heating unit, it is important to think about the age of your air conditioner. When the time comes that you must decide whether you will replace or repair the AC unit, it is crucial that you have to consider the age of your current equipment.
It is recommended that your AC unit should be replaced every 10 to 15 years, according to EnergyStar. For instance, if your air conditioning system is already eight years old or older, then it would not be wise to repair it except if it only requires an easy fix such as a clogged condenser unit or a worn fan belt.
But still, you should let a skilled HVAC technician examine your AC unit as well as the ducts responsible for delivering your cool air.
Goodman Appliance Inc. can help you with your HVAC problems. We can install and replace your HVAC system. For more information, just call us at 1-310-652-7078 or you can also send us an email at mrgoodmanac@gmail.com.
