As an HVAC expert, I have seen many companies struggle with the decision of when to replace their HVAC system. It's a big investment, but it's also a crucial one for the comfort and productivity of employees and customers. While some may try to extend the lifespan of their outdated systems, it's important to consider the potential consequences of doing so. In this article, I will discuss the factors that should be taken into account when deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC system. The average lifespan of a commercial HVAC system is 15 to 20 years, depending on various factors such as maintenance, installation quality, and weather conditions.
According to Energy Star, if your heat pump or air conditioner is over 10 years old, or your furnace or boiler is over 15 years old, it's likely that your system is starting to show its age. You may have noticed that it used to be more efficient, but now it's failing more often. If this is the case, it's time to consider upgrading certain components or replacing the entire system. Poor air quality can be a sign of a potential leak in the HVAC system, but it can also indicate that air isn't being properly filtered through the heating and cooling system. If changing air filters doesn't improve the air quality, there may be other issues with the system such as damaged ducts.
It's always best to consult a professional if you have persistent air conditioning problems, as a broken system can even lead to carbon monoxide leaking through the vents and posing a deadly threat. When deciding whether to keep or replace an older HVAC system, ongoing maintenance and repair costs must be taken into consideration. As systems age, these costs can become more expensive and add up over time. Even small repair bills can eventually exceed the cost of purchasing a new system. If your system is no longer covered by warranty, you will be responsible for all repair and replacement costs.
It's important to consider the potential costs of repairing individual components versus replacing the entire system when making this decision. While the average lifespan of an HVAC system is 15 to 20 years, as it ages, it becomes less efficient. If your system is over 10 years old, it's worth considering replacing it with a more energy-efficient unit, such as one with the ENERGY STAR label. These high-efficiency units can save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs. Repairing an older system is often more expensive and doesn't guarantee an extension of its lifespan. If your heat pump or air conditioner is over 10 years old, it's definitely time to consider replacing it with an ENERGY STAR certified unit.
If properly installed, these units can save you up to 20% on your heating and cooling costs. Unfortunately, no matter how well-maintained your system may be, there will come a time when it needs to be replaced. According to Energy Star, if your air conditioner is over 10 years old, you should consider replacing it. If it's over 15 years old, you should seriously consider replacing it, as this is the average lifespan for most cooling devices. It's crucial that whoever replaces your HVAC system checks the ducts to ensure they can handle the amount of air that the new system will need to move.
At Service Experts, our team of heating, air conditioning, and plumbing professionals can help you determine when it's time to replace your home's HVAC system. While it may seem like a daunting decision, investing in a new system can actually save you money in the long run. Before making a decision about a new HVAC system, take into account the downtime record of your current system and use a free calculator to estimate the potential energy savings of a more modern system. Just because your air conditioning system is 10 years old doesn't mean it needs to be replaced immediately, but it's a good time to start considering your options.
