HVAC Repair Versus Replacement: Which One is Best for You?

When your HVAC unit starts to act strange and doesn’t perform in prime condition, you may wonder if this is it and you need a new installation or if you can make it with a less-expensive repair to get everything working on the up-and-up again. While it is not always an easy decision, there are a few signs that will clue you in to what condition your unit is in. Here are a few questions to ask yourself when deciding if you need an HVAC repair or it’s time for a replacement.

How old is your HVAC system?

As your HVAC unit ages, there will be times when a repair will be necessary, and these repairs will happen more often due to components aging. However, when your HVAC system is over ten years old, you may start to notice the malfunctions and repairs are occurring more often, and the cost is higher because the problems become major instead of staying minor. There will come a time when you will need to decide if you want to pay for another major repair or if you want to spend that money on a new installation instead.

How frequent are HVAC repairs?

Pay attention to the frequency of air conditioning repairs because this could be a sign that you have a system in place that is the wrong size for the square footage or there were other errors made during the installation. Ensure that you have a reputable company handle the installation and service calls, and if you start to notice trouble with the unit prematurely, you can either call a technician to see what has gone wrong or get a second opinion from professionals that you trust like an HVAC company in Franklin.

How much are the repairs costing?

While there will be minor and major repairs throughout the lifespan of your HVAC system, you will want to pay attention to how much these repairs are costing over the course of a year. If you have spent more than a thousand dollars on repairs and maintenance calls, then it could be time to stop repairing and start replacing. Ask the HVAC technician about the brands that are lasting and get recommendations so that your next heating and cooling unit will last longer.

Has your energy bill been gradually increasing?

If you have noticed your energy bill is on the rise, then your air conditioner may be the culprit. You can ask the technicians what you can do around your home to keep the energy efficiency up such as sealing up drafts in windows and doors and adding insulation, but if this does not keep your unit from having to work as hard, then it could be time for a replacement.

Have you kept up with maintenance?

Keeping up with HVAC care such as changing filters, having your yearly service call performed, and getting repairs addressed at the first sign will make an impact on how long your unit will last. Keep these tasks on your to-do list and make sure you don’t let them drop off, and trust that you can save hundreds, if not thousands on your HVAC unit.