What To Know When Upgrading Your HVAC System

One decision homeowners begrudgingly, yet inevitably, have to make is when to replace your HVAC system. Although upgrading your HVAC system might seem like an expensive process, the costs of continuing to repair and operate your older, inefficient HVAC unit far outweigh the upfront costs of installing a new unit.

If you’re trying to determine whether or not it’s time to replace your current HVAC system, there are a few important things to know before you upgrade your home’s heating and cooling system.

When Should You Replace Your HVAC System?

It’s important to upgrade your HVAC system after approximately 10-12 years, especially if you live in a region with extreme seasonal weather. Heating and cooling systems require the attention that an annual maintenance plan offers in order to work efficiently. 

What Signs Should I look For To Replace My HVAC System?

Even systems that are well maintained usually have components that begin to wear out after a decade. There are several indicators of when to replace your HVAC system including:

• Spikes in your utility bills
• High indoor humidity
• Insufficient cool air or heat despite the HVAC unit operating
• Frequent breakdowns
• Unit requires an expensive repair

5 Considerations For When Your Replace Your HVAC System

Determine what HVAC upgrade your home needs. Are you in the market for an HVAC upgrade that combines heating and cooling? Do you simply need a new furnace or air conditioner? Do you have no idea? That’s fine! Your first step should be to educate yourself on the basics of heating and cooling 101 (the HVAC system is only part of the overall picture). Zoned HVAC systems can provide increased temperature control by selectively blocking the flow of air. Whereas, single-stage heating and cooling is popular in places with more extreme seasonal temperatures because it is milder the majority of the year. There are many HVAC acronyms and terms that indicate which way your heating or cooling system operates. Call in a professional who can help you determine the best HVAC upgrade for you with a heating and cooling inspection.

Understand your unit’s SEER rating. If you’re planning on replacing your HVAC system, nearly every unit available will be more efficient than the unit you plan on replacing. Recently manufactured air conditioners have a SEER that ranges from 13 to 21. A SEER of 13 is the minimum standard for air conditioners. An HVAC inspection can help you better understand what this rating means for your home.

Do the math, thinking about the long-term costs. You may feel uncomfortable spending an extra $2,000 or $3,000 more than you planned when you upgrade your HVAC system. That is a lot of money at face value! However, it’s important to remember that your HVAC system is an investment. The higher quality, more efficient HVAC units will save you thousands of dollars over the next decade.

Install a smart thermostat. This device might be small but can create big savings. An ecobee SmartThermostat with voice control allows you to control the climate in your home remotely. The digital thermostat is worth the investment when you’re upgrading your HVAC system. The long-term cost savings and peace of mind that comes with your ability to regulate your energy consumption from afar will be well worth the upfront cost of installation. Ask your HVAC professional for some recommendations.

Consider the unit size. Bigger doesn’t always mean better when it comes to upgrading your HVAC system. To efficiently cool or heat your home, you need to calculate your home’s square footage before determining how many BTUs your unit needs. If the unit is too large, it will constantly be cycling on and off. If it is too small, the unit will be forced to continuously run to effectively control the temperature. A small unit running for an extended period operates more efficiently and is more effective at dehumidifying than a large unit that cycles on and off too frequently.

Call John C. Flood When You’re Ready To Upgrade Your HVAC System

Whether you determine you need to add, replace or simply maintain your heating and cooling system, the team at John C. Flood will take care of your home.  

Think about age. Unlike some of the finer things in life, HVAC systems generally do not get better after a decade or two. Energy Star recommends replacing your unit if the heat pump or air conditioner is over 10 years old or if your furnace or boiler is over 15 years old.

Odds are good you’ll have already noticed rising bills, weird noises, excessive dust, temperature changes from room to room and other tell-tale signs of a fading system. Call at 703-214-5611 or for John C. Flood’s Service Partner Program to receive regular HVAC service from the most experienced professionals in the area. Schedule service today and start saving!