HVAC Replacement FAQs

When it comes to HVAC replacement or repair, the decision can be a difficult one as it is not always clear cut. While it sounds more expensive, if your HVAC system is old and is experiencing frequent breakdowns, replacing the system may actually be the more cost effective choice. An experienced heating and cooling company, like Galmiche and Sons Heating & Cooling can help you consider the options to make the best choice. You can also learn more about HVAC replacement with the questions below.

Q: What is the normal lifespan of an HVAC system before you should consider HVAC replacement?

In general, you may want to consider HVAC replacement if your unit is between 10 to 20 years old, as the efficiency of an HVAC unit decreases over time. Instead of getting a new heating and cooling system, you can also consider overhauling your existing system. However, it is also good to note whether your current system is up to par with the latest energy regulations and standards. Because technology improves over time, a new system will included more energy efficient equipment, which often makes replacing an old system an ideal choice.

Galmiche and Sons can help you assess the efficiency of your existing HVAC system and provide appropriate recommendation for HVAC replacement or overhaul.

Q: HVAC replacement or repair: which choice is better?

To answer this question, you need to ask yourself the following questions as well:

• Is your HVAC unit more than 7 years old?
• Does it require frequent repairs?
• Do you experience inadequate heating or cooling in different areas of your home?
• Are you seeing higher electricity bills?

If your answer is “yes” to most or all the questions, then an HVAC replacement is most likely more practical and cost effective than repair.

Q: How can I determine if getting a new heating and cooling system is right for me?

While you can observe your HVAC system's efficiency, it is best to contact a reliable HVAC company to determine whether you need HVAC replacement or not. Homeowners often think that HVAC replacement will solve all their home temperature problems, but a specialist can check for other causes that do not necessarily require installing a new unit.

Q: Is getting a bigger HVAC system better?

Getting a bigger unit is not always the best choice when considering HVAC replacement. While a bigger air conditioning unit can cool your house faster, it can also cause your electric bill to be higher than necessary.

Disproportionate HVAC system can also be a health hazard. An air conditioning system that is unnecessarily large for your home can raise room temperature fast without adequately attaining an optimum level of comfort for all spaces. Additionally, because the system shuts off before enough air can blow across the indoor coil, where moisture condenses into water and drains from your system is can lead to increased moisture in the air which can spawn the growth of mildew and mold.

Furthermore, bigger HVAC system causes frequent start-stop run cycles, which not only drive electricity use up, but also creates unnecessary wear-and-tear on the system. Eventually, it can lead to another HVAC replacement without you getting the full benefit of the first one.

Q: How will I know if I am getting the right HVAC system?

The right heating and air conditioning unit is determined through proper load evaluation and calculation. Our HVAC maintenance team at Galmiche and Sons can visit your home to perform an assessment and provide you with the right recommendation for an appropriate HVAC system.

Q: Do I need new ducts when I have HVAC replacement?

Experts in the HVAC industry estimate that around 70% of homes do not have properly installed ductwork. Considering this, HVAC replacement without having your ductwork repaired or replaced can be costlier in the long run. Our HVAC experts at Galmiche and Sons can provide a thorough examination of your ductwork to make sure that your new heating and air conditioning system is operating at peak efficiency.