Should I Repair or Replace my HVAC Unit?

Should I Repair or Replace my HVAC Unit?

Is your HVAC unit ready for summer? If you haven't paid attention to your HVAC unit for awhile, it may be time to evaluate whether it needs repair, or whether it will need to be replaced entirely. You may be able to answer a few of your own questions without calling in a qualified HVAC professional right away; look for these signs that will indicate whether you have to repair or replace your HVAC unit:

1. Consider the age of your unit

One of the first things you'll need to consider when making this decision is your unit's age. In general, an HVAC unit that is more than ten years old should be replaced with a new, more energy efficient model. Older models have a lower Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) than newer models, and even though replacement may cost more initially, you'll pay for your unit several times over when you see significant savings on your monthly energy bill.

2. Look at repair history

Is your unit needing frequent repairs? Is it draining your monthly budget with the need for tune ups, freon, and other maintenance that can add up over time? If it seems to be breaking down frequently, or if it is costing you time and money with a repair history that seems to be too lengthy, it might be time to replace. In general, use the rule of 5000 to determine whether to repair or replace; if the age of the unit multiplied by the cost of the repair is greater than 5000, it's time for your old unit to go.

3. Look at efficiency

If your unit is ten years old or more, or it does not cool your home efficiently and seems to be costing you more money than expected in energy bills, think about replacing it. While the cost of installation may be higher than you initially want to pay, the energy savings you'd incur over the course of the year could add up to as much as $500 annually. This efficient savings alone is worth the investment in a new unit.

4. Consult a professional first

At times, it may be necessary to call an HVAC professional in for a professional assessment of your unit and its function. A technician may be able to give you advice that will help you to fix an older unit short term while saving for a new one. A professional will also take into account the size of your unit, your projected use, and cost-effective options when making suggestions for your home.

Need some advice? Give us a call!

If you are wondering about the efficiency of your HVAC unit, it may be time to give us a call. Professionalism, commitment to customer service, and a passion for creating cool and comfortable homes are what we do, and we do it well. Give us a call today for more information on how to improve your home's comfort and efficiency.