6 Reasons to Update Your HVAC Unit

If you’re like most people, the time you begin thinking about replacing your HVAC unit is the minute it dies on you. What if there was a better option that didn’t leave you in the middle of a large emergency purchase? Consider replacing your HVAC unit every 10-15 years. Here’s why.

Energy Efficiency

As time goes by and technology advances, the energy efficiency of units has increased. This means a newer unit will be more energy efficient. The SEER rating, also known as the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is a measurement of how much the unit cools in a year divided by the energy it uses. There are federal minimums that must be met by manufacturers. Since 1992 that minimum has risen from 10 to 14, so units are required to be more energy efficient as time goes on. If your unit is several years old, you aren’t getting the performance you deserve.

Improved Air Quality

When your HVAC unit is working at peak efficiency, it does a good job of circulating and filtering the air in your home. This can be particularly helpful for those with asthma and allergies. A properly functioning HVAC unit doesn’t just make you feel cooler or warmer, it’s actually better for your health as well. Poor air quality can cause respiratory problems and aggravate problems that are already present. If your air quality is suffering your HVAC unit may be to blame.

Considerable Savings

Another reason to upgrade is the money you’ll save. If you improve the energy efficiency of your unit you could qualify for the Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit, which allows you to claim a tax credit for 10% of the cost of qualified energy efficiency improvements and 100% of residential energy property costs. This credit is worth a maximum of $500, which is no small amount.

Also, when your HVAC unit is more efficient, you will see the difference in your power bill. The more energy required to heat and cool your home, the more money you spend every month on utilities. Replacing your unit before it completely dies could save you money in the long run.

The older your unit gets, the more repairs that will be required to keep it in good working order. A newer unit will cut the cost here as well. When you consider the higher monthly power bill and the more frequent repairs that will be required to maintain an older unit, you may save considerably by purchasing a newer one.

It Can Make Your Home Smarter

The future is now, and smart home technology is taking over. However, some older units may not be compatible with smart thermostats. If you want a fully integrated smart home, an upgrade may be unavoidable depending on the current age of your HVAC unit. This smart system can make your life more comfortable and actually save you money by adjusting the thermostat to proper levels automatically.

It’s Better for the Planet

If you are looking for ways to decrease your carbon footprint and go greener, a new HVAC unit can help. You’ll use less energy to power your unit leading to less energy being produced by the power company. This will limit the pollution you are contributing to the planet. This is beneficial to all of us.

You Won’t Have an HVAC Emergency

Even with proper maintenance, an HVAC unit won’t last forever. There will come a day when it stops working. If you wait until that day, you may have to make an appointment, have a unit ordered, be put on an installer’s schedule, and as a result, spend several days in misery with no heat or air. When you decide to replace your unit before it stops working, you don’t have to deal with any of those problems. You don’t spend any hot August nights sweating buckets while trying to fall asleep. You can have confidence in your system and know that it’s going to take care of you.

Is It Time for a New HVAC Unit?

If your energy bill is higher than you think it should be or your unit is ten years old or older, it may be time to consider replacing your HVAC unit? How can you know for sure? Schedule an energy efficiency assessment to check your unit and see if all it needs is some routine maintenance or you could benefit from replacing it now before disaster strikes. Our professionals can help you make the choice that is right for your home.