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When to Replace vs Repair

If your air conditioner, furnace, or heat pump isn’t working properly, it’s time to take action, but what action should you take? Millions of homeowners every year are faced with this dilemma and must decide whether it’s okay to simply repair their system one more time or if it’s finally time to replace the ailing HVAC device. Here are some simple tips to help you determine when it’s okay to repair and when you should opt for a full replacement.

Repair Costs

Most people don’t think of replacement right away, simply because the apparatus lasts for so long and will likely needs multiple repairs in that span of years. Even with a regular maintenance plan, clogged filters, heavy use and debris can all lead to repairs.

However, when repairs start to happen multiple times per season or when your system starts to break down during the most extreme weather, you should reconsider your approach. An HVAC system, especially a good quality one that was properly installed, should need minimal repairs when well maintained. If repairs start to occur frequently, it is often a sign of age and deterioration.

When to Consider Replacement

Replacement becomes necessary when your system grows old, bills increase or you simply want to avoid the high cost of energy. Here are specific situations in which you might consider replacement an option:

• Age – If your air conditioner or heat pump is more than 10 years old, it is ready for replacement. If it works well, there is no immediate need but keep in mind that older devices use more energy. The same is true for furnaces or boilers more than 15 years old.
• Uneven Comfort Levels – A device that appears to be operating normally should heat or cool your home evenly. If you notice rising temperatures in some rooms and a chill in others, or the air conditioning simply never reaches rooms upstairs, it is a sure sign the system is growing old and replacement should be considered.
• Humidity – Humidity is another major problem. A properly functioning air conditioner should also dehumidify your home. If your ductwork is leaking or your system isn’t working properly, you may suffer from dry air in the winter and high humidity in the summer, both of which could be remedied by a system replacement.
• High Energy Bills – Even a perfectly operating system can cost you money if it’s too old. Extremely old systems tend to use far more energy than the modern systems being installed today. Air conditioners have SEER ratings of 13 or higher now, up to 60% more efficient than anything made 10 years ago. Furnaces can be up to 98% efficient and new types of heating systems are now available to provide even higher ratings.

Replacement is a big decision, but if your home is no longer being kept comfortable and safe, or if you’re paying excessively high energy bills, it may be your best option. Instead of spending hundreds or even thousands of extra dollars each year on repair costs and high bills, a replacement will give you the peace of mind of a new system and the reliability of modern engineering. If you decide that now is the time for replacement, be sure to contact one of the local New Jersey area York dealers , for premier York equipment and exceptional service.