If your West Covina, CA, furnace starts making funny noises, you may be tempted to replace it. However, it might make more sense to simply fix the issue and save yourself a significant amount of money. There are a few questions that you’ll need to ask yourself when deciding whether it’s best to repair or replace an ailing HVAC component.
How Old Is the Component?
A furnace that was installed more than two decades ago is likely close to the end of its useful life. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to replace it, even if the issue seems to be a minor one. This is because newer HVAC components tend to be more efficient, which means that you’ll save money on your utility bills.
It also means that your house will obtain a uniform level of comfort throughout the year. You must consider that older units may be more likely to break as they age, which means that a single repair may quickly turn into multiple service appointments. Therefore, it may become more expensive in the long run to replace what you have instead of repairing it.
How Often Are You Servicing Your System?
Replacing your HVAC system may be a better option regardless of age if you are constantly having it serviced. A newer unit may be problematic if it was installed incorrectly or isn’t the right size for your house. Those issues and others are unlikely to be resolved until the existing unit is replaced with something new. Of course, if this is the first time that your relatively new unit has run into trouble, it’s likely best to simply fix the problem and move on.
What Can You Afford?
In absolute terms, a repair is almost always going to cost less than a full replacement. Therefore, if you can’t afford a new furnace or air conditioning unit right now, you’ll want to strongly consider making whatever repairs are needed. However, if your unit is old or defective in some way, you are encouraged to plan to replace it as quickly as possible.
How Much Is the Repair?
In some cases, the cost of a repair will rival the cost of replacing the entire unit. In such a scenario, opting for the replacement will be your best option for several reasons. First, your new unit will likely come with a warranty or service guarantee that lasts for several years. Next, the new unit will likely be quieter, in addition to using less energy to heat or cool your home. Finally, a new unit may increase the value of your home or make it easier to sell in the future.
Does the Current System Pose a Safety Hazard?
Let’s say that you discovered a gas leak in your home that was caused by a furnace that wasn’t combusting properly. In such a scenario, it likely isn’t safe to keep the furnace in your home, even if you wanted to.
This is because contaminated air can quickly make its way around the house, causing a safety issue. It may also be a good idea to replace an HVAC component that has melted wires or is at risk of causing an electrical fire. Electrical fires can be especially dangerous and can quickly spread. A professional can help you determine when a safety risk outweighs the benefit of repairing your current system.
You Want Something New
There is nothing wrong with wanting something different than what you currently have in your home. For example, you might decide that you want a system that you can control with your smartphone or that offers modern tools that your current HVAC components simply don’t. You may also decide that you don’t want a ductless system in your home anymore or otherwise want to change your home’s current configuration to better suit your wants or needs.
If you are looking for HVAC repair or replacement services in West Covina, contact the team at Top Air Heating & A/C today. In addition to installing a new furnace or repairing an air conditioner, our team can install new insulation, fix your home’s ducts, or perform indoor air quality tests. Taking such actions may help to make your home more comfortable and efficient throughout the year.
