If you’re facing the decision to repair or replace your heating and air conditioning system for your Gretna, LA home, then fear not. While it may seem confusing at first, the decision comes down to three simple factors. Don’t feel pressured one way or the other. Instead, simply make an intelligent decision based on the facts of your current system. Read on to learn more about the factors that should guide this decision and how to find a contractor with the expertise to help you decide whether to repair or replace your Gretna, LA HVAC system.
The Three Factors Affecting Your Decision to Repair or Replace
- Age of the System (Life Expectancy or Life Cycle)
- Condition & Maintenance History
- Efficiency Rating
Life Expectancy
How old is your current system? This will be the most important factor to help you decide whether to repair or replace your heating and air conditioning. In general, older systems have a worse condition and lower efficiency. So you can generally base most of your decision on the amount of expected life your current system has left.
Based on ENERGY STAR ratings, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recommends replacing air conditioners older than 10 years. Likewise, you should replace furnaces and boilers older than 15 years. If your current system is under these limits, then you’ll need to consider the next two factors to make your choice.
Condition
In what condition is your current system? If the AC or heater has received regular maintenance, then it may be in great shape. Check to see if there is a maintenance history. Well-maintained systems are those that have been serviced twice a year. Sadly, few households budget for steady service contracts, and they wait until an emergency to call a professional. If that’s the case, then the current system will have a shorter life expectancy. Most likely, you’ll save more money by replacing it than performing an entire overhaul.
Efficiency
How well does your current system perform compared to today’s options? If the cost of your current electric bill is very high because of an older system with low efficiency, then it makes sense to replace. With a newer, more efficient system, the money you save each month in energy bills can help offset the monthly payment to finance your new air conditioning and heating system. Air conditioning efficiency is measured based on a SEER rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating), and furnaces use AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). You may need an HVAC professional to help you assess the SEER or AFUE rating of your current unit. As a rule of thumb, each point higher on the SEER saves 10% on your cooling cost.
Bryans United Air Conditioning
Call Bryans United Air Conditioning to repair or replace your heating and air conditioning system. If you need assistance examining your current unit, then we’re here to help. We pride ourselves on working with you to stay within your budget. We serve New Orleans, Gretna, Metairie LA and surrounding cities.
