As a homeowner, you’ll eventually come to a point where you have to consider what to do with your HVAC system. When problems crop up, especially in the wintertime, how do you know when to repair or replace it? When it comes to heater replacement for homeowners in Yankton, SD, determining the answer can be easier said than done. Is this the year you need a new HVAC system, or can it wait? Is that noise new or normal? Should you replace the unit instead? The questions are endless and the whole situation can become overwhelming when you don’t know what to do!
Winter is just around the corner, and now is a good time to evaluate your home’s HVAC system to make sure everything is working before the temperatures dip. Today, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about when to replace vs. repair your HVAC system.
Do You Need Heater Replacement or Repair?
Deciding whether to repair or replace your HVAC system depends on the type (and frequency) of issues you’re experiencing.
When to Repair the Unit
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, here are a few guidelines that indicate your system is a good candidate for repair:
- Your system seems safe.
- Your home is cool and comfortable.
- The system still operates efficiently.
- The repairs are infrequent and minor.
- The system is less than 10 years old.
- You’ve performed regular maintenance.
While none of these things protect you entirely from replacing your unit, they’re all good indicators that your system is modern, efficient, and will respond well to repair so you can prolong the life of your unit.
When to Replace the Unit
If you recognize the following symptoms, it might be time for replacement:
- Your system is more than 10 years old. The average lifespan of an HVAC unit is about 10-15 years. If your system is older than that, it’ll likely cost you more money to make continued repairs rather than just replace it with an updated model.
- Your system is unsafe. If there’s any indication that your system is dangerous, replacement is essential. Over time, severe HVAC malfunctions can lead to potentially deadly consequences, including fire hazards and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- You’re making constant repairs. If you’re having your HVAC unit repaired all the time, you may be putting a band-aid on a bullet wound. Save yourself some money (and a few headaches) by replacing the unit instead. Then, you can enjoy a new unit that works rather than pour money into an old unit that will keep breaking down. Sometimes, repairs just aren’t worth the hassle and short-term benefits.
- You haven’t performed routine maintenance (or you just moved in). If the system hasn’t been well-maintained, or you don’t know anything about its history, have it inspected — at the very least. An HVAC expert will be able to tell you whether the system just needs a little maintenance, or whether it’s time for a full replacement.
HVAC System Replacement Cost
Your HVAC system is going to cost you. Fortunately, a new, efficient system can also save you (hundreds of dollars annually)! If you’re looking to replace your HVAC system before winter sets in, you can expect to pay up to $10,000, although that number can vary — going up or down — depending on your needs.
If you don’t have that cash floating around, ask your HVAC tech whether they offer in-house financing. Financing is a great way to bridge the gap between the money you have on-hand and the HVAC services you need. Plus, interest rates are generally lower than what you’d find on a personal loan or credit card offer, so you won’t have to worry about too many extra fees on top of the initial cost.
AC & Heater Replacement in Yankton, SD
For local homeowners, our team is standing by to help you get back to comfort in your home. Whether you need a quick fix with a repair of a new HVAC system installation, we can help. Larry’s Heating & Cooling has been in business since 1982, and we know a thing or two about providing high-quality HVAC services those in our community can count on! Winter is just around the corner, and we want to help you stay warm, comfortable, and safe all season long. If you need your HVAC system serviced, schedule an appointment with our team today! We can quickly restore comfort with AC and heater replacement for those in Yankton, Vermillion, and the surrounding SD communities.
