REPAIR OR REPLACE?
Your HVAC unit is one of the most important systems in your home. That makes the question of HVAC repair vs. replacement especially important. Most everyone wants to manage their money as wisely as possible. However, delaying or even denying the inevitable can add up to much larger expenses in the end. At Hometown Comfort Heating & Cooling, we want to help you make the best HVAC decisions possible. Here are three top factors to consider:
AGE: Even if you’re not facing a repair, a standing pilot furnace or air conditioner built before 1995, should really be replaced, whether or not you’re not facing a repair need, a furnace in this age range is likely to be operating at less than 60%, and the AC will probably have a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 8 or less. To put it in proper perspective, the US Department of Energy has recently mandated a minimum of 14 SEER on all new air conditioning units. If your unit is approaching its golden years – beyond three-quarters of its life expectancy (see chart at top), do your research now and devise a plan for replacing your unit, because with an antiquated HVAC system, the question isn’t if your unit will fail you, but when.
FAILED AC COMPRESSOR or HEAT EXCHANGER: These two items are each, respectively, the components that represent the driving force of your air conditioner or heater. If either of them fail after the warranty on their replacement has ended, it’s time to let go. Other components are soon to fail or falter as well, and it’s just not worth it. Of course, you are free to choose this repair, as it is less costly than the price of a brand new system, but it’s not a good investment. Putting that money toward a new system will quickly earn dividends, as new equipment comes with new warranties and higher efficiency. Plus, although we love to see you, most people prefer keeping their money in their own pockets rather than spending it on needles repair costs.
REPAIR COST: Speaking of which… if the repairs will cost more than a third of replacement, it’s going to be in your best interest to nix the repair and opt for new. As we mentioned above, a new high efficiency heating and air conditioning unit could add up to dramatic savings. Here are two helpful resources for you to check out:
- Plug in the age, size, and efficiency of your existing equipment, your region, and what unit you might replace it with: http://www.hvacopcost.com/
- US Consumer Guidelines: http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=heat_cool.pr_checklist_consumers
At Hometown Comfort Heating & Cooling, our expert technicians can give you a thorough assessment of your unit, and honest, reliable advice. Occasionally, younger equipment will need to be replaceddue to poor quality installation or lack of maintenance. At other times, the opposite is true – older equipment can look and function like new because it’s been so well maintained. A skilled technician knows what to look for and what they’re looking at. It is our pleasure to help you make the best decision for your Williamson County home and your budget. We can ensure your HVAC system is running as efficiently as possible – and help you determine whether or not an upgrade to a new high SEER system is best for maximum function and cost effectiveness. Contact our friendly, helpful team at Hometown Comfort today at (615) 240-7056.
Hometown Comfort Heating & Cooling: Your hometown solution for dependable comfort!
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