Buying an HVAC system is very similar to buying a car. It’s an investment in something that you want to last as long as possible. Thus, you as a consumer, want to know everything you can about your options and you desire the best product you can get at the most affordable price. We understand that here at Boiling Springs Heating and Air and want to help you as best we can. So, here are a few FAQs about HVAC system replacement as well as some answers and fun facts.
- What kind of system should I get? There is really no one right or wrong answer to this question. The answer depends on several different variables, factors, and conditions. Such as cost, efficiency, the size of your home, the age of your home, where your home is located, etc. There are many different types of system, all suitable for these variables.
- Split (straight/standard) AC: some components indoor, some outdoor. An air conditioner to cool refrigerant, a furnace and fan or evaporator coil to convert refrigerant and circulate air, ducts to carry air throughout your home, and a thermostat to control it all.
- Hybrid heat split system: same as split AC, but with an electric heat pump to fuel the heating rather than a gas furnace.
- Packaged HVAC system: for homes and buildings lacking adequate space for all the separate components. Package units contain the air conditioner, heat pump, fan, and evap coil in one unit.
- Electric heat: one of the more efficient heating and cooling systems. Rather than converting electricity into heat, they absorb warmth from the air or ground and then transfer this heat to the home. Because of this, it provides up to 4 times more energy than it consumes, allowing it to be more efficient than its gas counterpart. Electric systems are also safer than gas furnaces, with less risk of carbon monoxide getting into your home or explosion from the combusting natural gas or propane.
- Gas furnace: Uses propane or natural gas to produce heat. There is a risk of fire, explosion, or carbon monoxide pollution if you do not keep your system regularly maintained.
- How much does a new HVAC system cost? Just as in the case of what type of system you should get, the answer is dependent on several variables such as what type of system you need, the size of your home, etc. In order to properly price a new system, someone would have to look at the specs of your home and what kind of system you have. Luckily for you, most HVAC service providers generally offer quotes and estimates (ours are free for system replacement! Just call us to set one up!) .
- Should I get a system that runs on R410a refrigerant? The EPA has mandated that R22, commonly referred to by a brand name, Freon, be phased out, with production to be ceased by 2020 due to its being harmful to the earth’s ozone layer. It is being replaced with R410a refrigerant. Most HVAC systems manufactured and installed prior to 2010 use R22 refrigerant. Obviously, before 2020, you will most definitely need to replace, but it is not an absolute necessity right now if you don’t want to.
- Side tip: If you believe your unit is in need of freon, you may have a bigger problem. R22 refrigerant is still available, but it is costly. It is expensive to buy and does not have a set price. It varies per pound. Thus, it is easy for someone to take advantage of you and overcharge for “charging” your unit when you don’t need it. Your AC system should NEVER need refrigerant. Refrigerant is not like fuel in a car. It doesn’t get used up over time. If your unit is low on refrigerant, chances are you have a leak. If you suspect you need your unit “recharged”, call us or another licensed HVAC contractor to properly diagnose your system. It will save money to fix the real problem.
Hopefully, this blog has proven helpful in educating you about HVAC replacement and we hope it aids you in making your decision. If you’d like an estimate, we’d love to set you up with an appointment with our Comfort Advisor. As always, The Team You Can Trust would love to serve your maintenance and service needs as well!
