Your home needs a dependable HVAC unit that efficiently uses energy to keep your family comfortable. Before you replace your HVAC unit, or have repairs made to your existing HVAC system, you will need to have some questions answered. When you talk with your HVAC professional, he or she will be able to help you get the answers that you need to make the best decision for your specific needs and your home or business.
What Does HVAC Stand For?
First things first, what does HVAC stand for? Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. Usually, when the term HVAC is used, it is referring to the entire heating and cooling system. This could be either outdoor or indoor units, duct work, controls, air filters, and registers. There are several different kinds of HVAC systems and they can accommodate different sized houses or businesses. There are several different manufacturers of HVAC units, and an HVAC technician will be able to tell you the differences and the specifics about your options.
When Should I Replace My HVAC System?
If your HVAC unit needs repeated repairs, it’s probably time to replace the unit. A system that is functioning properly should only need occasional work. If you have tried to fix the system on many occasions and it isn’t properly cooling and heating your home, it may be time to replace the unit. Older systems are not as energy efficient, and you can save yourself a lot of money in the long run by replacing your unit.
Should All HVAC Equipment Be Replaced At Once?
It is suggested that all HVAC equipment be replaced at the same time. If a part of the system breaks and needs to be replaced, you do have the option to replace just the broken part, but you may find that replacing the entire system is more efficient and cost-effective. If one major part fails, you should consider that the rest of the unit is the same age and is much more likely to fail soon.
What Size HVAC Unit Is Best For My Needs?
The size of the space that you are cooling and/or heating determines the size of the HVAC unit that you need. The larger the size of the space that needs to be heated and cooled, the larger the unit you need to purchase. As an example, a 5,000-square-foot house will need a much larger unit than a small 1,000-square-foot dwelling. Some larger two story homes even have 2 units. One for upstairs and one for downstairs.
Which Type Of HVAC System Should I Buy?
The energy requirements, space, environment, and your heating and cooling needs must be taken into consideration when you decide which HVAC unit to buy for your home or business. When you call an HVAC professional, they can come to your place and do an assessment to determine which kind of unit will work best for your specific situation. They will consider all the details of your specific situation then help come up with an effective solution for your needs. At Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we’ve replaced thousands of furnaces and AC units over the years so we’ll have some answers for you.
How Much Does An HVAC System Cost?
When determining the cost of an HVAC system there are several things that come into play. Larger systems are more expensive than smaller systems. The location of the building, the space in which the unit will be located, and the features of the HVAC system. The difficulty that it is to replace the unit also plays a role in the cost as well. The cost of the unit, its components, labor, and any other parts and materials all add to the investment. At Golden West, we give estimates of how much everything should cost before doing the work.
What Is The Average Lifespan Of An HVAC Unit?
Most HVAC units have a 10-to 20-year lifespan. However, many professionals recommend replacing the unit every 12 years to ensure you have a system that runs efficiently and effectively. With proper installation of the unit and routine maintenance your system could last for as long as 20 years.
If My HVAC System Is Working Okay, Should I Replace It?
You should only replace an HVAC unit if it is in your best interest. Talk with an HVAC expert if your unit is older than 12 years old because you may still be able to save money by getting a new energy efficient unit. While a new unit may be a large investment, you could save as much as 50 percent on your energy expenses and that can add up to a significant amount.
How Often Should I Have Maintenance Done To My HVAC Unit?
You should have your HVAC system inspected at least once a year. The technician will tell you how often your air filter should be replaced. If you have pets in your home, you may have to change it more often. Feel free to call Golden West Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning at any time. We’ll have a technician ready to help you out!