When Is the Best Time to Buy a New HVAC System?

HVAC equipment is built to last for many years, but like all things, it can't last forever. The trick is knowing when buying a new HVAC system is the right thing to do. To help you out, here are signs to look for that you may need a new system in your home:

Warm or Hot Air Is Coming Out

When an air conditioner begins to blow warm or hot air, most people would consider this to be the biggest indication that replacement is necessary. Your best bet is to schedule an appointment with an HVAC technician to see whether repair or replacement is in order.

The Equipment Has Passed the 10-Year Mark

Most HVAC equipment will last at least a full decade or longer, especially if you get it checked by an HVAC professional each year. If the system is more than 10 years old and is giving you problems, then pay attention to how it's operating, because it might be time to retire it.

Repairs Have Become Frequent

Getting your air conditioner repaired is something that every homeowner is likely to do at some point, but this shouldn't become an annual ritual. If your repairs have become frequent, it's definitely in your best interest to ditch your current system and install a new one.

Indoor Air Quality Has Diminished

Your home's indoor air quality is an important component to keeping your family and friends healthy. If anyone has been experiencing respiratory issues and a technician tells you that your equipment is likely to blame, then replacement may be the most reasonable course of action.

You Hear Odd Noises or Sounds

Minor noises and sounds typically aren't a big deal, but if the problem is severe, this is definitely something that you should be concerned about. Small problems may indicate an issue with one of the system's components, but larger issues most likely mean that replacement is imminent.

Buying a new HVAC system can be very beneficial for your home. If you need more expert advice on this or any other comfort-related subject, contact the professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas for more than 30 years.

Common Mistakes People Make When Buying HVAC Equipment

Of all the home improvements you make, selecting new HVAC equipment may be the most challenging. These systems are complicated and expensive, and if you’re like most homeowners, something you don’t deal with often. Before you start the process, it’s helpful to avoid the most crucial, albeit common, mistakes made when replacing an old system.

Not Checking Contractor Credentials

In Oklahoma, all HVAC contractors must be licensed, bonded and insured. If you use an unlicensed contractor, you may not have any financial protections, and the HVAC system’s manufacturer may not honor the warranty.As you search for a contractor, look for NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification. NATE is a non-profit organization that only certifies the most knowledgeable and capable technicians in the industry. When you work with a NATE-certified company, you’re much more likely to have a high level of satisfaction from start to finish.

The Wrong Size

Going by the size of your existing HVAC system when replacing it could be a mistake that haunts you for a long time. Before you purchase a new system, make sure your contractor conducts a load calculation using Manual J software.Any reputable HVAC contractor will use this software to find the best size for your home based on a variety of factors that include home size, its overall energy efficiency, your cooling and heating preferences, and the home’s orientation to the sun. Selecting a system that’s too large or small compromises your comfort, the system’s energy efficiency and its durability.

Basing Decisions on Price Only

It’s short sighted to base your decision about HVAC equipment based on its price alone. Your contractor should show you the lifetime costs of the system you select based on the money you’ll save with a more energy efficient system. It will cost you more initially, but it will pay for itself in lower operating costs from the start.

Choosing new HVAC equipment isn’t a do-it-yourself project but a reputable contractor can help you through the choices you’ll need to make. To learn more, contact Air Assurance, providing NATE-certified HVAC services for Broken Arrow homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about buying HVAC equipment and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.