Should I Repair or Replace My HVAC System? 

When your HVAC system starts acting up, it often leaves you wondering whether it’s worth repairing or if it’s time to invest in a replacement. A decision like this can be daunting, especially the cost. However, being aware of the pros and cons of each will help you make well-informed decisions that align with your needs, budget, and long-term comfort. 

Age of the Equipment 

1-10 years old - Your equipment still has years of life left in the equipment and repairing is usually the best option. 

10-15 years old - This can be tricky! Your equipment is in the gray area, and what to do should be determined on a case-by-case basis. A decision should be made by comparing the cost of repair to the cost of replacement, and the chance of a costly repair soon after a fix. 

15+ years - Replacement will tend to be the best option. Your system is past its prime, and will most likely break down at more regular intervals. 

Cost 

The cost difference between repairing and replacing your HVAC system will be one of the biggest factors in your decision. While repairing your system might be cheaper in the short term, replacement is often a better long-term investment, especially when your current system is 15+ years old. Weigh these costs carefully by considering the chance that another major repair may be on the horizon if you choose to move forward with a repair, while also considering what you have room for in your budget right now. 

Part/Equipment Availability 

Older systems, especially those over 10-15 years old, will be more prone to breakdowns. Parts for these systems will become harder to find as manufacturers phase them out. If there is a leak, and the system uses R-22 refrigerant, this is a significant issue. Due to environmental concerns, Freon is being phased out, so availability is limited and the cost is high. Replacing your system with a newer, more energy efficient model that uses R-410A refrigerant will provide long-term savings on repair costs.

Utilities 

A key indicator of system failure is rising energy bills. If you’ve noticed a significant increase in how much you’re paying monthly in utilities, there’s a very good chance your HVAC system is the culprit. If your current system is relatively new and only requires a minor repair, opting for a repair rather than a full replacement will usually be the most cost-effective solution. This is especially true if your system is still under warranty, or only has a few issues. However, it’s a different ball game if your system is 10-15 years old. The repair will most likely be an expensive one. A newer system will come with improved technology, better energy efficiency (lower energy bills), and features that enhance performance and comfort. 

Temperature Consistency 

If your HVAC system is unable to maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature, it may be time to consider an upgrade. This is especially true if a licensed technician has been to your home and confirmed that your system is operating properly. If an adjustment can be made on a system less than 10-15 years old, a repair may be the more cost-effective decision. Older systems struggle to maintain even heating and cooling throughout your home, which can lead to hot or cold spots. They require frequent adjustments to reach the desired comfort level, and even then there’s a chance that your system will still struggle to maintain temperature. 

Air Quality 

Persistent issues like dust accumulation, allergy symptoms, or unpleasant odors will lessen or resolve completely with the installation of an air purifier system into your current HVAC system. If your HVAC system is not compatible, this won’t be possible. If that is your situation, lots of modern systems come with built-in humidity control which addresses issues like excessive dryness in the winter or humidity in the summer. They are equipped with advanced filtration systems, such as HEPA filters or UV light purifiers that remove dust, allergens, and pathogens from the air more effectively than older models. An upgrade will improve temperature control and create a healthier living environment by producing cleaner, more breathable air. 

The decision to repair or replace your system depends on age, repair severity, and your financial long-term goals. Make sure you consult with a licensed HVAC provider, who can provide you with a professional evaluation of your system, offer advice, and help determine the best course of action.

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HVAC Troubleshooting Tips & Tricks for Homeowners 

As a homeowner, few things are as frustrating as a furnace that won’t warm you up when you’re chilly, or an AC that won’t cool you down in the middle of July. These issues disrupt your comfort and drive up energy costs. There IS good news, though; you can solve many of these issues without calling in a professional technician! We’re going to walk you through some troubleshooting tips to help you identify and fix minor issues yourself, saving time, money, and stress. 

Check the thermostat settings 

Often, the quickest and easiest fixes are the ones we overlook first. If your HVAC system isn’t turning on, or not maintaining the temperature you’re going for, start by checking the thermostat. 

1. Verify the mode: ensure the thermostat is set to the correct mode. “Heat” for heat, “cool” for cool. 

2. Adjust the thermostat: If it’s hot or cold inside, but the thermostat is set to a temperature you don’t want, adjust it accordingly. 

3. Check the batteries: If your thermostat isn’t responding to these commands, the batteries might be dead. Replace them with fresh ones and see if that resolves the issue. 

Inspect the Circuit Breaker 

Scenario: your system has completely stopped working. Nothing is turning on, and all you can hear is your house settling around you. Your circuit breaker might have tripped! This is a safety feature designed to cut power if there is a risk of overload. How to fix this: 

1. Locate the breaker panel: Find the circuit breaker. It’s usually in the garage, a utility closet, or basement. 

2. Reset the breaker: If the breaker has tripped, flip it to the “off” position. Let it sit like that for 10-15 minutes, and then switch it back to “on” 

3. Test the system: After resetting the breaker, try running your HVAC system. If it trips again, there may be an electrical issue.

Change the Air Filters 

A dirt air filter is a common culprit. When the filter gets clogged, airflow is restricted, which makes your system work harder. This leads to increased energy bills and breakdowns. Here’s how solve this problem before it happens: 

1. Check the filter: Locate your air filter, typically near the blower motor or the return vent. 

2. Replace or clean the filter: If the filter looks dirty and gross, replace it with a new one. For reusable filters, wash them thoroughly and make sure to let them dry before reinstalling 

3. Little tip: the arrow on your filter should be facing your furnace. If your filter box is higher up, it should be pointing down, and if it’s closer to the ground, it should be pointing up. 

Clear the Condenser Unit (AC or heat pump) 

If your air conditioner isn’t cooling as effectively, the condenser unit outside could be blocked. Dirt, leaves, or debris can accumulate around and inside the unit and restrict airflow, causing it to overheat. Solution: 

1. Turn off the Power! Always turn off the power to the unit before cleaning. 2. Clear the debris: Remove any leaves, twigs, or dirt around the condenser coil. You can use a soft brush, vacuum, or hose to clean dirt off of the coils. 

3. Check for obstructions: Make sure nothing is blocking airflow around the condenser, such as outdoor furniture, plants, or fencing. 

Look for Signs of Inadequant Refrigerant Levels 

This one is a little bit tough, because only certified HVAC technicians have the tools to check refrigerant levels with 100% accuracy. However, there are a few tell-tale signs... 

1. Iced-over evaporator coil. If the evaporator coil inside the air handler is covered in ice, it could mean low refrigerant OR restricted airflow. 

2. Warm air blowing: If your system is blowing warm air instead of cold air, while you can still hear your unit running, this can be indicative of a refrigerant leak.

Inspect Ductwork for Leaks or Blockages 

Leaky ducts are the worst. They can reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system, and can be hard to spot. If certain rooms are too hot or cold, your system is running almost constantly, or you can hear a whistling sound when air is coming through, faulty ductwork could be the issue. How to check: 

1. Look for visible damage: Inspect the ducts for visible holes, cracks, or disconnected sections. Pay extra attention to areas near vents, and the unit. 2. Seal any caps: You can use duct tape or mastic sealant to seal small gaps and holds in the ducts. 

3. Check for blockages: Look for any signs of debris buildup in the ducts, especially near the air return vents where toys or other random household items could have gotten. 

Ensure Proper Insulation 

Insulation plays a key role in creating comfortable temperatures. Poor or shoddy insulation can make your HVAC system work harder than necessary, driving up energy bills and wasting resources, while doing nothing to maintain temperature. How to check: 

1. Check the attic: symptoms of insufficient insulation include ice dams on your roof, visible gaps, mold or mildew growth, or cold floors and walls near the attic. 2. Seal windows and doors: Drafts around windows and doors waste lots of energy. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal em’ up. 

Listen for Unusual Sounds 

Odd noises coming from your system are a huge indicator of an underlying problem. Here is a guide to common sounds, and what they could mean. 

1. Hissing: This is potentially indicative of a refrigerant leak or a problem with the ductwork. 

2. Banging or clanging: Often caused by loose or damaged parts inside the system. Examples of this are a broken blower wheel or motor. 

3. Grinding: A grinding sound can suggest that something is wrong with the motor or fan. This will require professional attention. 

4. Rattling: Loose parts or a dirty filter can cause rattling sounds. Inspect and secure any loose panels, and change your filter if necessary.

Sooo…How Do You Know When to Call a Professional? 

As we’ve discussed, many issues can be put to rest with a little trouble-shooting and elbow grease. Some problems just can’t be addressed without the expertise of a licensed technician, however. Here’s when to call call a pro: 

1. Refrigerant issues: Handling refrigerant requires specialized training and equipment. Don’t attempt to refill or handle Freon by yourself. Direct contact is dangerous, and can lead to accidental inhalation, which causes Freon poisoning. 

2. Electrical issues: If your system is consistently tripping breakers, experiencing power surges, or having other electrical problems, it’s time to get a professional involved. 

3. Frozen coils: Frozen evaporator coils often indicate a more serious issue, such as low refrigerant or a malfunctioning compressor. 

4. Banging, clanging, or grinding: These sounds are indicative of a part failure, like a broken blower, motor, or fan. A technician should diagnose with certainty the issue, and make the necessary repairs. 

Troubleshooting is a valuable and important part of being a homeowner, saving you all sorts of resources and hassle. Being aware of the health of your HVAC system will bring you peace-of-mind, and keep your system running efficiently. If you encounter problems you can’t solve on your own, don’t hesitate to give us a call! A little proactive care today can ensure your HVAC system operates well for years to come, and will keep your home comfortable year-round.

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What Is Included In A Service Call? 

We’ve all been there….it’s the morning of the hottest day so far in July, and you notice your house is a lot warmer than usual. You check the vents, and there’s no cold air coming out. The thermostat is set to 70 degrees, and the house is 78 degrees. All of the worst case scenarios are racing each other around your brain. Here’s what to do next: 

Give Us A Call! 

Service Call 

● The phone will be answered by one of the friendly, helpful ladies at the front desk! 

● She’ll ask you questions about the symptoms your HVAC system is showing, the timeline of the issue, and collect some information about you. 

● She’ll explain how the service call will go, ask you about your scheduling preferences, and introduce you to the technician that’s coming out.

● You’ll get a text message once the appointment has been scheduled, confirming the time, and another the day before the appointment as a reminder.

● You’ll get one more message when the technician dispatches to your house the day of the appointment, along with a photo of who is coming out so you know who to look for! 

● While the technician is out there, he’ll do a full diagnosis of your system, answer any questions or concerns you may have, and present you with estimates for repair. 

● If you choose to move forward with the repair, he can usually get the work done same-day, but if you choose to only move forward with a diagnosis, there is never any pressure to complete the work! 

● We accept cash, card, or online payments if you’d like us to email you the invoice! 

Preventative Maintenance Call 

The process is very similar! 

● Our front desk ladies will ask you questions about your system’s performance, what units you would like to get serviced, and your timeline for getting the work done. 

● She’ll walk you through what a preventative maintenance appointment includes, and give you pricing for the work you’re wanting to get done. 

● While the technician is doing maintenance, he’ll make sure that everything is in working order, and make you aware of any issues that could cause your system to run inefficiently.

What’s Included in a Maintenance? 

Furnace/Air Handler (Indoor) 

● Inspect filters; clean/replace if needed 

● Inspect blower wheel, clean if needed 

● Check blower motor current, verify it is within tolerances 

● Check blower motor capacitor, verify it is within tolerances

● Inspect coil and drain pan, clean if needed 

● Test condensate drain performance, clear/clean drain if needed

● Install condensate drain tablets to mitigate microbe growth that will impede draining 

● Inspect electrical connections/components 

AC/Heat Pump (Outdoor) 

● Inspect refrigerant line insulation and condensate drain termination

● Inspect fan blades and motor, clean if needed 

● Check fan motor current, verify it is within tolerances 

● Monitor compressor starting capabilities and running amp draw

● Check blower motor compressor capacitor, verify it is within tolerances

● Inspect coil, clean if needed 

● Inspect defrost drain pathways, clear/clean if needed 

● Inspect electrical connections/components 

Performance Check 

● Using thermostat controls, run unit in heat, verify temperature rise is within 17/25 degrees 

● Using thermostat controls, run unit in cooling; verify temperature drop is within 17-25 degrees 

● Check static pressure, verify it is within tolerances. 

● Answer any questions you may have 

We are going through your system(s) with a fine-tooth comb to ensure no breakdowns! In fact, studies have shown that over 80% of breakdowns are due to lack of maintenance.

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