If your HVAC unit has seen better days, you may be considering a complete air conditioning system replacement. But if you’re like most homeowners, that thought feels a little intimidating. Knowing when the time is right, what the process will look like, and how to afford it are all important considerations. The team at Total Comfort Cooling and Heating is here to help with our comprehensive guide.
Signs That It’s Time for an Air Conditioning System Replacement
Chances are, your air conditioning system will start to show you some key signs that it’s time for a system replacement long before the installation actually takes place. Some of the most common signs of an aging system on its way out are as follow:
- Age: Systems 10-15 years old or more are typically extremely worn down, inefficient, and need to be updated.
- Inconsistent Temperature: If your unit is unable to heat or cool consistently or thoroughly, it is a telltale sign of a dying unit.
- Strange Sounds: Unusual noises typically spur the most action when it comes to AC system replacement or repair, as they are never a positive sign. Pay attention to any clanging or roaring coming from your HVAC system.
- Rising Energy Bills: If you are receiving abnormally expensive energy bills, this is likely a result of a system working harder than it should have. This could be caused by age, broken-down parts, or general malfunction.
- Odd Smells: Weird odors are another sign of AC unit malfunction. If your unit is emitting a smoky or sulfur smell, you should immediately call a trusted team of HVAC professionals and start looking into air conditioning system replacement.
What the Installation Process Is Like
Air conditioning system replacement is a complex and tedious process, which is why you should always entrust the installation process to a team of experienced professionals. Total Comfort professionals are here to give a broad overview of the installation process so that you can enter this major transition fully informed.
Prior to the actual installation, technicians will thoroughly inspect, assess, and modify the new AC system’s essential components, including the electrical breakers and wiring, refrigerant levels and piping, ductwork, and the system’s condenser pad. Next, the technician will attach ductwork to the air handler and ensure the drain system is properly reattached as well. Your HVAC technician will ensure that electricity and refrigerant lines are reconnected as well. Finally, the tech will initiate a startup assessment of your new system, checking refrigerant levels, airflow, air temperature, and drain function in a thorough way only experienced HVAC professionals can. This ensures that your new system is functioning at its absolute best.
What to Consider About Cost
A major obstacle many homeowners struggle to overcome with an air conditioning system replacement is the cost. New HVAC systems are not cheap; however, there are many ways to stay on budget and ensure you are prepared to keep your home comfortable while still managing the cost. Here are two big things to consider when it comes to AC replacement costs.
Unit Type
Air conditioning system replacement costs weigh heavily on the type of unit you are looking for, including the brand and the size.
The larger the unit must be to keep up with the demands of the space that needs cooling, the larger the upfront cost. However, this does not mean that it’s a good idea to choose a small unit for a large space in order to try and cut upfront costs. A small unit would have to work double time to cool a large room, thus costing you more in astronomical energy bills over time. Instead, it’s important to select a unit that is the right size for your space. Our technicians are happy to give you their recommendations.
Additionally, at Total Comfort Cooling and Heating, we also offer specialty units which can throw a wrench in average cost expectations. Geothermal Heating and Air Conditioning System, a cost-efficient indoor climate control method which disperses cold air from the earth beneath your home. Geothermal system installation is costly upfront in terms of installation, but costs remain low long-term. Solar AC and Heating Repair and Installation is another specialty option. It is costly in the initial phases but energy-efficient for your entire home in the long term.
Financing
There are many options for homeowners to choose from when deciding how to finance their air conditioning system replacement. These options include credit cards, home equity loans, or personal loans. Be sure to consider the different factors that impact these options, such as interest rates, repayment terms, and application processes. We also recommend reaching out to your bank or lender of choice to determine whether they offer specialized financing options or loans specifically for HVAC needs–this is available pretty widely.
Contact our trusted team of HVAC professionals to discuss your air conditioning system replacement needs, and beat the summer heat with Total Comfort.