When it comes time to replace your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, it can feel a bit overwhelming. You need to consider characteristics such as size, efficiency and type. All of these features have an impact on how much money you spend initially and how much you may save in utility bills as well as the life of the unit. A furnace’s efficiency is measured in AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). Regulations require that units operate at a minimum-efficiency of 80 percent AFUE, but they can range all the way up to 97 percent AFUE.
Repair or Replace
When your furnace begins to show signs of aging, you have to make the decision whether to replace or repair your system. You need to take into account the age of your unit, its efficiency level and any telltale noises it is making. The average life of a furnace is 12 to 18 years. After that, it becomes unsafe and technological upgrades make an investment worthwhile.
The size of your unit might be inappropriate for your home causing unnecessarily high utility bills. The size of your HVAC system depends on the square footage of your home and the region of the country where you live. Services like Reimer furnace repair can help you make these determinations. Squealing and screeching are signs that your furnace is in ill repair. Contact a reputable furnace repair service to take a look. They can advise you on whether it is worth repairing.
Benefits of High-Efficiency Unit
If you come to the decision that your HVAC system needs to be replaced, you might consider upgrading to a high-efficiency unit. These systems cost more but they are more efficient, lower bills and are more comfortable.
- Comfort – Newer systems provide more even heating, have more consistent air flow, maintain a constant temperature and offer better humidity control than older units. This all adds up to a more comfortable environment.
- Longer Life – Because newer units require less on-and-off cycling, they are more efficient and need fewer repairs. Proper maintenance is important for the lifespan of any system.
- Cost – High-efficiency systems can operate at over 90 percent AFUE. This could save you thousands of dollars in fuel costs. Many units pay for themselves within a couple of years.
- Environment – Because newer, more efficient systems require less fuel, they are by nature more environmentally friendly. This means less waste and conservation of natural resources. It is win-win for your pocketbook and the Earth.
- Peace – A new unit provides you both peace of mind and peace and quiet. You might have become accustomed to your old noisy furnace and hardly notice until peace is restored to your home. Having a brand new, high-efficiency furnace gives you the peace of mind of lower bills and fewer repairs.
Consult an expert before making any final decisions as to HVAC systems. Experienced professionals can advise you on the best action to take. Whether you decide to repair or replace, it is good to explore your options. High-efficiency units cost more but provide more savings down the road, although repairing a gently used furnace might be a wiser choice depending on the age of your heating and cooling system.
Very informative. The only thing I would add would be that a new system, if replacing makes sense, would be covered by a warranty and give the homeowner piece of mind that it will not fail will you need it most.