Do You Really Need to Replace That HVAC or Just Have it Repaired?

With the world of air conditioning changing rapidly each year, it might be worth replacing your unit if you find that your system isn’t keeping your home nice and cool like it once did. If your system is newer, it won’t consume near as much energy as what the older systems do. Not only will it keep your home cool, but you won’t be spending a fortune on your energy bill each month.

Air conditioners that are beyond eight years of age should probably be replaced, unless the repairs needed are something simple and inexpensive. When you call upon an HVAC specialist, have them inspect your ductwork along with the system. By improving your ductwork, it can increase how effective your system is, without having to install new equipment.

Look at How Efficient Your Unit is

Even when your system is less than 10 years old, you might find that the unit is sucking up twice the amount of electricity as if you were to purchase a new model. Back before 2006, units only needed to have an SEER of 10. Today, the law has changed to reflect a minimum SEER of 13. What does this mean for you? It means a 30 percent reduction in cooling bills and energy consumption.

Inspect Your Ductwork

Even if you upgrade to the absolute best unit available, that doesn’t mean you are going to feel nice and cool on the sweltering, summer days. The system itself has other components that have to work together to keep your home cool. Your ductwork leaks about 10-30 percent of the air before it ever gets into your living space. Before making the decision to repair or replace your unit, the technician should run a test on your ductwork to determine how much it’s leaking.

Consider the Structure of the Building

Homes that aren’t properly insulated can cause your aging unit to be under a tremendous amount of stress and strain. By resolving the flaws in your home, it will have the power it needs to keep on chugging along for a couple of years. However, you might be able to get a smaller unit to replace your current one for less than you think. In turn, you can reduce the amount of money you have to spend upfront and over the years significantly.

Regardless of whether you need insulation blown into the walls, the ductwork needs to be replaced or something else, you need to speak with a qualified HVAC technician to determine what options you have available to you. Don’t waste time hoping the unit will be fine; do something about it today and save yourself a lot of time, hassles and money.