
Your HVAC unit has been reliable for so long, but it’s not as efficient as it used to be. Is it on the way out, or do you just need repairs and annual maintenance?
We’re here to help you find out. There are a few ways to tell if you need a full HVAC replacement in Sussex County, DE, or just repairs to get you through another year. If you’re weighing the costs and benefits, this guide to deciding between AC repair and replacement can offer more clarity.
How HVAC Age Affects Repair vs. Replacement
Heaters and air conditioners tend to have a shelf life of around 10-15 years. Yes, you can find online forum posts and reviews where people discuss their units lasting for longer–that’s entirely possible, but there’s a reason for that time frame.
Over time, your HVAC unit loses efficiency. Maintenance and timely repairs are key to slowing that degradation and providing the ideal conditions for your HVAC unit.
Is Your HVAC System Keeping You Comfortable?
Are you comfortable with your current HVAC unit? Do you have times where you feel like it’s barely chugging along to hit the temperature targets you set on your thermostat?
One way to know if you need replacement is if you’ve made multiple calls for repair, but your HVAC unit still doesn’t feel quite right. HVAC units lose efficiency as they age (even with proper maintenance), and it may be that your unit just isn’t up to snuff anymore. If this sounds familiar, you might be facing a replacement on the horizon whether you realize it or not.
Understanding the 50% Cost Rule in HVAC Decisions
If a repair on your HVAC unit looks like it’s going to cost a ton, it’s time to weigh the decision between repair and replacement. If your repair quote is 50% or more than the cost of a brand new HVAC installation, it’s time to part ways with your old unit. The 50% rule of thumb is a trusted method HVAC professionals use to help guide homeowners through this important decision.
That expensive repair won’t be your last. There are certain parts of an HVAC system that can’t simply be repaired or replaced to return it to its former glory. This isn’t due to part quality or technician capabilities—simply that you can’t replicate factory-level production conditions out in the field.
When this happens, your HVAC unit needs to be replaced, otherwise you run the risk of replacing your unit anyway in six months to a year when the next major, expensive breakdown happens.
What Energy Bills Reveal About HVAC Health
If your energy bills are going up and you’re not changing your heating and cooling habits, it means something is wrong. There’s a chance that your thermostat might need to be recalibrated, but even so, you shouldn’t have that high of a spike in your heating and cooling costs.
This is a sign that your HVAC unit is starting to give out on you. If you aren’t sure what the issue is, calling a technician to perform an inspection is the next best thing.
Upgrade Opportunities for Higher HVAC Efficiency
Older HVAC units eventually give out. Don’t stick around with the same inefficient air conditioner or furnace. Talk to us today about upgrading your home heating and cooling system as soon as possible to get the upgrade you need.
Contact Atlantic Refrigeration & Air Conditioning, Inc. today to schedule your HVAC replacement as soon as possible and reclaim your comfort.