When something breaks down, it’s tempting to go the quick route and pay for repairs to get it up and running again.

That quick fix may seem the least expensive route now, but it may not offer the most value in the long run.  There’s a lot to consider.

  • Equipment’s age
    • If your system is 15 years or older, it might be time to replace.
  • Cost of repair
    • If the cost of repairs are going to be around one third of the price as replacing, you should consider replacement.
  • Energy Efficiency
    • Systems today are at least 30% more efficient than they were ten years ago.  How efficient is your system?
  • Repair history
    • If it seems like you have to call for frequent repairs, it might be time to replace.
  • Moving soon?
    • A new system can add value to your home and peace of mind to a potential buyer if you are selling your home.
  • Equipment Performance
    • Just because you have a 4 ton system, it may not be pushing 4 tons if it is an older system.  As a system ages, its ability to remove heat is lessened, just like a 15 year old car doesn’t run like a new car.
  • Energy source (Natural gas, propane, dual fuel, heat pump)
    • A dual fuel system is the most efficient system for heating on the market.  It combines a heat pump with fossil fuel.
  • Warranty
    • If your system is out of warranty and something big goes wrong, you could be stuck with a costly repair bill.
  • Compressor replacement
    • Has your compressor been replaced in the last 5 years?
  • Temp regulation
    • The old mercury style thermostats are not as accurate or easy to use as a newer style thermostat.
  • Balance
    • Are there rooms in your house that don’t get the air flow they used to?  The older your system is, the less air flow it will produce.
  • Noise level
    • If your system is really noisy and bothersome, you may enjoy having a newer system.  You may not even notice that it’s running.
  • Refrigerant type
    • If your system runs on R-22 refrigerant, you may want to consider a new system.  Government agencies are phasing out this type of refrigerant for other refrigerants that are less harmful to the environment.