Understand the basics of replacing your HVAC unit

Replacing an HVAC unit is a big step that involves thousands of dollars worth of expenses. Therefore, it’s not something that should be taken lightly.

In fact, before you make an HVAC unit replacement, there are a number of things you should know. Wondering what they are? TMC is going to tell you.

The Approximate Lifespans of HVAC Systems

First, you should know the approximate lifespan of HVAC units. This way, you can determine whether a full-on replacement is truly needed. If an HVAC system is still much younger than its typical expiration date, it might better benefit from a repair rather than a replacement.

Now, how long do HVAC systems last? Air conditioners tend to thrive for between 12 and 15 years. Furnaces, on the other hand, tend to last for 15 to 20 years.

If you want to get the most bang for your buck, you should ensure that your HVAC system is old enough to be replaced. Otherwise, you’re essentially flushing hundreds and maybe even thousands of dollars down the drain.

Regardless, you should consult with a professional HVAC technician. They’ll assess your HVAC system and determine whether a repair or replacement is the better course of action.

The Cost of HVAC Repairs

Another thing you should know before replacing your HVAC system is the cost of HVAC repairs. Why is this important? Because it can help you determine whether you should repair your HVAC system as opposed to replacing it.

Let’s say your HVAC system stops working. Yes, you could just replace it without further thought. However, there might very well be a repair that can get it up and running again.

If this repair is relatively low-cost, it would likely be the ideal option in comparison to a full-on replacement. If, on the other hand, the repair costs thousands of dollars, you would probably be better off just replacing your HVAC system entirely.

You can get a rough idea of HVAC repair costs online. Note, though, that the only way to know these costs for sure is to have your HVAC system assessed by a professional HVAC specialist. They’ll take a look at your HVAC system and give you a thorough estimate of the cost of repairs.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

As time passes, new technologies are discovered. These technologies are vital in that they help to make HVAC systems more and more energy-efficient. Energy efficiency is important not only because it benefits the environment and power grid but because it saves the homeowner money.

This is why it’s often wise for a homeowner to replace an old HVAC system, even if that system is still performing its job. Yes, it may be getting the job done. However, it might also be costing you a lot more money than a new system would.

Since 2015, the United States requires new air conditioners to possess a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) of at least 14. Prior to 2015, there was no such requirement.

Currently, new air conditioners have ratings up to 25. So, as you can see, there have been seismic improvements in energy efficiency over the last decade or so.

When choosing a new system, take into account both SEER ratings and your budget. Yes, higher SEER ratings generally cost more money. However, they will often save you money in the long run.

There Are Many Different Options Available

When it comes to HVAC unit replacement, you don’t necessarily have to replace your system with like entities. For example, you don’t need to replace your central air conditioner with another central air conditioner. You could instead replace it with a series of ductless mini splits, for instance.

There are many different options for HVAC systems today. In terms of cooling, you have central AC, ductless mini splits units, and heat pumps. In terms of heating, you have furnaces, boilers, and even radiators.

Now, it might be easiest to just replace each entity with the same type of entity. However, you should know that each different type of unit provides its own set of benefits.

So, while central AC might be more cost-effective than ductless mini-splits, ductless mini-splits allow for more temperature variation throughout the house. And while a furnace might be less expensive to run than radiator heating, radiator heating provides a more thorough and balanced heating experience.

Regardless of anything, you need to do your research on the options that are available to you. For help with this, give your local HVAC company a call.

Costs Can Vary

Not all HVAC units are created equal. As such, the HVAC unit price can fluctuate wildly. Whereas one central AC might cost you $3,000, another might cost you $10,000.

When choosing a new system, you need to assess its many features and characteristics to determine whether it justifies its price. As was noted above, it can be beneficial to pay more for an AC with a higher SEER rating. That said, a higher price doesn’t necessarily mean a better product.

This is why, when going through the purchase process, you’re strongly advised to consider several different options. Compare each unit against the others and determine what their true differences are. Then, assess their prices to determine whether they’re really worth a purchase.

Need an HVAC Contractor to Help You With Your New HVAC Unit?

Ready to replace your HVAC system? Need an HVAC contractor to help you with your new HVAC unit? TMC has you covered.

We’re one of the top HVAC companies in Middle Tennessee, serving the counties of Davidson, Rutherford, Marshall, Williamson, and more. Regardless of the type of HVAC system that you’re looking to set up, our seasoned team of pros can help you.