Home HVAC System: Should I Repair or Replace the Unit?

The Age of Your Home HVAC System

The average residential HVAC system lasts between 15 and 20 years with proper maintenance and tune-ups. Think about when you purchased your system.

If you can’t remember how old it is or know it's approaching the 20-year mark, it’s probably best to replace the system altogether. It will save you money in the long-run.

But if the system is still relatively new, try to repair it. It’s rare for newer units to need replacing instead of minor repairs and preventative maintenance.

That said, problems can and do happen. If the damage is severe and is impossible to repair without costing as much as a new system, your technician will let you know.

The Cost of Your Energy Bills

The average homeowner spends more than $1,200 on their electric bills every year. A good part of that expense is due to the HVAC system.

Take a look at your electric bills each month. If the unit is still working properly and just needs repairs, your monthly electric bill should stay consistent with previous years.

If your bills are through the roof and increasing dramatically, it’s time to replace your system. Changing technology makes modern HVAC systems far more efficient than older models. And they’ll become less energy efficient the older they get.

By replacing the system, you’ll save on your energy bills for years to come. And those savings can be enough to offset the cost of a new unit.

How Comfortable Your House Is

Every HVAC system should keep your home comfortable. But if you’re dealing with frequent breakdowns or have an aging machine, it might not stay as comfortable as you want.

Think about how closely the system sticks to the temperature set on your thermostat. If you find that the system keeps your home comfortable no matter what the weather’s like on most days, get it repaired. It’s still in good condition.

But if your unit isn’t keeping up with the thermostat or runs constantly to keep the house at your preferred temperature, it’s time to replace it.

How Much You’re Spending on Repairs

Don’t get us wrong…we enjoy keeping your system working properly. But you shouldn’t have so many issues with your system that you know the entire team by name!

If you’re scheduling repairs once a month or those repairs cost more than several hundred dollars each time, it’s best to replace your system. You’ll end up paying less in maintenance and have the peace of mind knowing that the unit won’t break down as frequently.

But if those repairs are minor or you’re only dealing with a breakdown once or twice a year, it’s more cost-effective to repair the system. Keep in mind that you will eventually need to replace your heating and air conditioning system. But spending thousands on a new unit isn’t always necessary at the first sign of trouble.

Relative Humidity Levels Inside

The HVAC system helps control humidity inside the house. This reduces your risk for mold and mildew growth and helps keep your family healthy throughout the year.

When the unit is on its last legs, it’s normal for humidity levels in your home to go up.

Think about how your house feels when the system turns on. Does the humidity feel normal or does it feel damp and muggy inside? If it’s normal, all the unit needs are a few repairs.

But if the humidity levels are too high, you’ll probably want to replace your system.

Your Repair Expert Says It’s Time

HVAC technicians know the ins and outs of your system like the backs of their hands. They know when it’s in need of a minor repair and when you need to have the entire system replaced.

Don’t hesitate to ask for their advice. If the damage is easy to fix and will keep the system running throughout the changing seasons, they’ll let you know and recommend the necessary repairs.

But if they can’t save the system or think it will cost you more in the long-run to take care of upcoming frequent repairs, they’ll help you find a new unit for your house.

What You Can Do

It is possible to extend the life of your HVAC system. All it takes is staying up-to-date on routine maintenance. Every spring and fall, schedule a home HVAC system tune-up and let a professional inspect the system.

During the inspection, they’ll check for minor problems and have a chance to fix them before they become major issues. This way, you’ll stay comfortable no matter what the weather sends your way. And if the unit needs replacing, you’ll have a chance to get the job done before extreme temperatures become the norm.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Whether you’re looking for a home HVAC system tune-up or need to replace your outdated unit, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule an estimate and let our experienced technicians get your system working well again.