Repairing or Replacing Existing Equipment
When to Replace HVAC?
At a High Level…
- If your system has been in your home for more than 12 years, it's probably far less efficient than a newer HVAC system
- Musty or dry air is usually a sign of poor system operation
- The investment in a home heating and cooling system can be offset significantly by what you save in utility and maintenance costs
Which AC Refrigerant Does Your System Need?
Older R-22 refrigerant has been phased out, which means its production has stopped and, as of 2020, it is no longer being imported. If your system uses R-22, you have a few options. The AC refrigerant phase-out was timed to give you the opportunity to replace your system at your discretion. If you decide to keep your system for now, the most important thing you can do is have it regularly serviced. When it needs more AC refrigerant, you may be able to find recovered, recycled or reclaimed R-22, but it might be priced significantly higher than refrigerants used in newer systems.
When you're ready to replace your R-22 system, there are many high-efficiency air conditioners that use newer, more sustainable refrigerants. You will likely see remarkable savings on your energy bills when you replace your system with a more energy-efficient AC unit.
How Long Have You Had Your Home Comfort System?
Even if your older HVAC system seems to be operating okay, it may be hiding some deeper costs. Newer residential HVAC systems are designed to be much more efficient than older models, sometimes by as much as 50%.* As energy prices rise, lower efficiency systems can raise your utility bills and add additional, hidden costs year after year.
Higher efficiency, one of the benefits of a new HVAC system, can counter the rising energy costs of older systems, and the money you save on compounded years of energy bills can often offset the cost of a new HVAC system considerably – especially when you consider the inefficiency, HVAC service calls, and sometimes HVAC emergency repairs costs related to older systems.
Does Your HVAC System Have the Features You Need?
To answer this question, ask a few others: Is your current residential HVAC system providing consistent comfort? Are there temperature inconsistencies around your house? How does the air feel and smell? Is it musty or dry?
While some may consider these traits just part of their home, they could also be a sign your system isn't operating properly or there are HVAC issues with ducts or insulation. A residential HVAC system with features you choose can provide precise, consistent temperatures. In addition, if indoor air quality (IAQ) products are integrated, you'll benefit from cleaner air and balanced humidity levels. With a communicating thermostat, you can even control the comfort of your home from wherever you are, even outside your house!
What Are Repairs Really Costing You?
How often are you in contact with your HVAC contractor? The cost of unexpected repairs – the parts, the visits – adds up fast. In the short term, repairs may appear to be more affordable compared to purchasing a new home comfort system. However, depending on the repairs and their frequency, the total costs can often be higher than investing in new equipment. A new HVAC system seems like a large investment, but the money it pays you back in saved repair costs can be worth it.
If you’re wondering how much does it cost to replace HVAC in your home, we're here for you. Use our HVAC Dealer Locator to find your local Champion® dealer.