If you’re thinking about replacing an HVAC system, don’t wait until it stops working. As your system gets older, you can have multiple problems that will result in costly repairs. Replace your system before it fails, so you have adequate time to evaluate four important HVAC features.
Size
You may think that a bigger HVAC system will provide better heating and cooling, but it can actually create more problems. The size of your HVAC system should be properly matched to the size of your home. A system that’s too small will struggle to provide adequate heating and cooling and a system that’s too big will waste valuable energy and money.
Fuel
When replacing an HVAC system, the type of fuel used will impact your equipment. In warm climates like Los Angeles, an electric heat pump may be a good option to provide both heating and cooling for your home. If you already have gas, an indoor gas furnace can be coupled with an outdoor heat pump or an electric air conditioner.
Energy-Efficiency
The typical life span of a central air conditioning compressor is 10 to 15 years, but heat pump compressors often fail sooner since they’re used year-round. The typical life span of a gas furnace is 15 to 20 years. New Energy Star equipment will increase energy-efficiency and lower energy costs.
- Gas furnaces – gas furnaces must have minimum AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings of 78%. Energy Star furnaces have AFUE ratings of 90% or higher.
- Air conditioners – air conditioners must have minimum SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings of 13. Energy Star models have SEER ratings of 14.5 or higher.
Comfort
New HVAC equipment has advanced features for added home comfort.
- Variable-speed motors – deliver heat at two alternating levels for even temperatures. They’re quieter and provide cleaner air.
- Two-stage gas valves – deliver gas heat more evenly for longer periods. The heat runs longer without cycling on and off.
For expert advice on replacing an HVAC system for your home, contact Around the Clock A/C and Heating, serving the Los Angeles area since 1967.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Los Angeles, North Hollywood and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about replacing your HVAC system and other HVAC topics, downloadour free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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