Making the decision to either repair your old heating and cooling system or replace it with a new system is not easy. It's a decision homeowners just like you make everyday. We know you want to make a thoughtful, well informed choice. That's why we've designed a checklist to help guide you through the decision-making process.
There are five main questions that need to be considered when your HVAC system fails or you decide to replace a component of your system:
1) How old is your system?
If your system is more than 10 years old, it may be wiser to invest in new, higher efficiency equipment, which could cut your energy costs by up to 40%.
2) What is the efficiency level of your current home comfort system?
Unfortunately, replacing parts of your old system will not improve the efficiency. If the energy savings of using a higher efficiency system will cover all or part of the cost of investing in new equipment, you should seriously consider replacement of the old system.
3) What is the overall condition of your system?
If your system is in solid condition, it could be wiser to simply repair it. But if your system breaks down often, you should consider replacing it.
4) How often is your system operating?
If your system has been used extensively, it may be time to replace it.
5) Are you planning to move soon?
If you are moving within the next year or two and believe investing in a new home comfort system will improve the value of your home, you should consider making the investment. If you plan to live in your current residence for many years, it may also be wise to go ahead and invest in your future comfort.
Repair or replace checklist,br>
Making well-informed decisions about how to invest in home comfort systems is extremely important. That’s why you need to weigh all of the options before making a final decision about repairing or replacing your existing HVAC components.
This checklist should help guide you through some of the most important considerations.
1) What is the AFUE/SEER/HSPF of your old system?
AFUE_________ SEER________ HSPF___________
2) How old is your existing HVAC system?
Less than 10 years
More than 10 years
3) How is the overall operating condition of your system?
Good
Adequate
Poor
4) Has your current system required extensive or costly repairs in the last year or two?
Yes
No
5) How many hours a day does your system operate?
Less than 5 hours
7-9 hours
10 hours or more
6) How long do you plan to live at your current residence?
Two years or less
Three years or more
7) What will it cost to repair your current system?
$_______________________________________
8) What is the likelihood of continued system failure, considering the age of the unit?
Very likely
Unsure
Not very likely
9) Does your current unit keep you comfortable?
Yes
No
10) Is the operational sound of your current system disruptive?
Yes
No
11) What type of refrigerant does your current system have?
R-22
Puron
Refrigerant
