When it’s Time to Replace, Should You Buy the System or Only the Unit?

As a Central Florida homeowner, you rely on your HVAC system to keep your home cool and comfortable during the cooling months. When your A/C or heat pump breaks down or if it’s simply time for a replacement, you certainly want to make economical decisions. Read on to learn what’s involved when buying an HVAC system or choosing to replace a unit.

HVAC Upgrade or Quick Fix?

A/C and heat pump systems are typically estimated to last 10 to 15 years. There are many factors that determine the useful lifespan of your system, such as the original installation procedures, maintenance frequency, the manufacturer and usage.

The major parts of your A/C or heat pump that may place you in a situation to replace the unit or entire HVAC system are the compressor, condenser and evaporator. These parts use a refrigerant to cool your home (and heat your home in the case of a heat pump).

In addition to being a costly repair to replace a compressor, condenser or evaporator, the cost and compatibility of older refrigerant, which isn’t used in new systems anymore, needs to be taken into consideration.

New systems use a high-efficiency refrigerant that operates under greater pressure and temperature than older refrigerant. This new refrigerant is also safe for the environment. The point being that if you intend to replace a major part in your A/C or heat pump, you won’t get the efficiency or longevity from the unit as you would with a system replacement.

HVAC System Replacement

To better appreciate the benefits of replacing your HVAC system as a whole rather than investing in a temporary solution, review the steps of installing an HVAC system for long-term success:

• An energy audit identifies where your home needs to be sealed and insulated.
• Your HVAC professional measures your home’s cooling load.
• Your new A/C or heat pump should be sized to your home’s load calculation, which may reduce cost.
• Ductwork should be inspected and sized for design and compatibility.

If you have questions about buying an HVAC system for your Orlando home, contact Rinaldi’s Energy Solutions today!

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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