As a home owner, it can be hard to determine if it’s better to invest in a new heating and cooling system or repair an existing one. We know that new systems can be a costly investment, but continued repairs to an older, inefficient system that lacks dependability doesn’t make a whole lot of financial sense either. If you are not sure of your best option, Viviano can help.
Trane has offered a handy, easy-to-understand checklist for homeowners outlining if it’s time to buy new or repair your existing equipment.
Your First Step: Identify Your System’s Problem
If your system is malfunctioning and has been for a while, it’s time for an evaluation by a qualified HVAC professional. Ask your friends and neighbors who they use and check their Google reviews. A qualified professional will be someone recommended and someone you can trust to assess your system’s problem. Once they know what is going on with your HVAC system, they will be able to provide you with an estimated repair cost.
Second Step: Follow the “$5,000 Rule”
We recommend taking the age of your equipment and multiply that by the estimated repair cost. If the number is over $5,000, it makes sense to replace your unit. If that number is less than $5,000, it may be better to repair it. For instance, a system that is 10 years old and has a repair cost of $300 = $3,000 with this “rule” and means it’s probably fine to repair it. If a system has a repair cost of $600 and is also 10 years old, it equals $6,000 and it’s probably time to replace it. Every situation is unique, so it’s best to consult with an expert before making your final decision.
Third Step: Plan Ahead
It’s best to think ahead and be proactive when it comes to your heating and cooling system. Having your furnace break-down in the middle of a cold front can be overwhelming and may also cause you to make a decision on what to do without much forethought. If you know your furnace was having issues last winter, it’s a good idea to keep your favorite HVAC company in mind for the upcoming season in case a service call needs to be made. Be informed and realistic about your existing system.
Is your furnace over 20 years old? Typically, furnaces last 15-20 years. Air conditioners last about 10-12 years. Have you noticed an increase in your utility bills? Older systems are also less efficient. We know that new HVAC systems are a financial investment, that’s why Viviano also offers financing options to suit your budget.
At Viviano, we’ve been putting our customer’s comfort at the forefront since 1989, serving homeowners and businesses in the Metro-East with quality products and services. This winter, if you think it may be time to reassess your furnace’s efficiency, don’t hesitate to call us at (618) 345-7498 or check us out online at www.VivianoAir.com.
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