Repair or Replace? Your Guide to HVAC Decision-Making
Deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC equipment can be tense. You don’t want to spend more than you need to, or make the jump to getting a new system when your current setup still has some life left. No matter your final decision, though, Surplus City can help! With affordable HVAC repair parts and new, brand-name equipment, we can help make every project more affordable—without compromising on quality.
5 QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN ASSESSING HVAC EQUIPMENT
There are many factors to consider when you need to choose between repairing an existing HVAC system or investing in a new, energy-efficient equipment. Consulting with an HVAC professional can help point you in the right direction, but you also need to make a decision that aligns with your budget. Fortunately, when you have a reliable supplier, you don’t need to compromise on quality to get something that’s affordable. Yet you still need to keep every aspect of your situation in mind before you make your final call.
1. How old is the current system?
HVAC systems typically last 15-20 years. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, replacement might be more cost-effective in the long run. As systems age, they often become less efficient and prone to frequent breakdowns, contributing to increased maintenance costs.
2. How many repairs has the system needed in the past year or two?
If you're dealing with frequent breakdowns, it might be more economical to invest in a new system rather than pay for repairs. This question can be relatively straightforward when you’re looking at an older unit. It’s hard to justify fixing up a 20-year-old system that’s consistently breaking down. But if your equipment was only installed ten years ago, it can be harder to make that jump to buying new equipment again. Continuing to ask a few other questions might help clarify the best course of action.
3. Have you noticed an increase in your utility bills?
Newer HVAC systems are known for being much more energy-efficient, which leads to cost savings on energy bills over time. If you’ve been noticing higher energy bills lately, that might indicate that your equipment is operating with reduced efficiency. You’ll want to consider whether the repair you’re considering will be able to reduce your energy bills, or whether it will just be enough to keep your system going for another year.
4. Are there lingering comfort issues in your home, such as uneven heating or cooling?
If your HVAC system is struggling to keep your home consistently comfortable, it may be a sign that it's time for an upgrade. Modern systems are designed to provide more even and precise temperature control. Maybe it’s time to upgrade your heating and cooling equipment so you can start feeling more comfortable all throughout your home.
5. How do the long-term outcomes compare to the upfront costs?
When considering the total cost of the repair vs replacement, it's important to look beyond the initial upfront cost of purchasing and installing a new system. You need to consider not only the upfront cost but also ongoing maintenance, repairs, and energy expenses. Take the numbers that you’ve been considering, and now do a longer equation—what is the total cost over the next 5-10 years for both options?
Taking this holistic view with the long-term costs can help you determine the most financially sound choice for your situation. The upfront cost will be the initial expense of either the repair or system replacement. But then you need to look at the annual or periodic maintenance costs required for both the existing system and a potential new system. Newer systems may require less frequent and less expensive maintenance, contributing to potential long-term savings.
After that, be sure to take a closer look and assess the energy efficiency of your current system compared to a new, more energy-efficient model. Higher efficiency systems may have a higher upfront cost but can result in significant savings on energy bills over the years.
When you get everything organized, the decision should be clear! Along the way, Surplus City will be here to help you save with affordable, brand-name HVAC parts and equipment for all of your projects!