(NAPSI)—As a home comfort system ages, repairs to the system can become more frequent and expensive. As a result, you might ask yourself whether it makes more sense to repair the system or invest in new, more efficient equipment. Having a conversation with your contractor and asking the following questions can help you make an informed decision:
- How long should my home comfort system last?
Industry averages suggest a home comfort system should last between 12 and 15 years, as long as you have a qualified technician perform regular preventive maintenance and service.
- In addition to the age of my system, what things might indicate it’s time to replace my system?
- Your equipment needs frequent repairs.
- Your energy bills are going up.
- Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold.
- Your system is noisy.
- Your home has humidity problems.
- Your home has excessive dust.
- You have to leave your thermostat set at one constant temperature.
- In the case of a repair, why is it important to match components?
Repairs that require the replacement of system components, particularly on older equipment, may result in a mismatched system. Components that do not match can decrease system efficiency, compromise your comfort and shorten the life span of the compressor. Therefore, it’s important to know the full impact of a repair and which components will be affected.
- What benefits can a new system offer?
Today’s ENERGY STAR® -(a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program) qualified systems are as much as 60 percent more efficient than 10-year-old equipment. In addition to improved efficiency, new systems offer a variety of features that your current system may not have, including two-stage cooling, dehumidifiers, humidifiers and ultraviolet lights that can increase comfort and improve your home’s indoor air quality.
- What is the efficiency rating of a new system?
When it comes to cooling, air conditioners and heat pumps are rated according to the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). The efficiency of a fuel-burning furnace is expressed as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), and heat pump efficiency is expressed as the unit’s heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). Generally speaking, a higher AFUE, SEER or HSPF means increased efficiency and reduced operating expenses. So if you are concerned about utility bills and are faced with an expensive repair, you may want to look at the energy savings that a new system will offer.
- If I’m planning to move within a year, does it make sense to replace my system?
If your system is still working and you are planning to move, talk with your real estate agent to discuss the pros and cons of repairing your existing system or installing a new system before placing your home on the market.
Your HVAC contractor can help you with these questions and others you might have. To locate a Coleman HVAC contractor near you, please visit www.colemanac.com and follow it on www.youtube.com/ColemanHomeComfort and @ColemanHVAC on Twitter.