Your heat and air conditioning units share quite a bit in common. So if one system goes down, it might make sense to replace the whole HVAC unit.
The heating and cooling system of your home will only last so long. If neither keeps a home comfortable, it may be time to replace them. Homeowners should consider replacing both, even if there is only one malfunctioning currently. Allow us to tell you why.
Air Conditioners and Furnaces Work Together
Many homeowners mistakenly believe their heating and cooling systems are entirely separate. Although these two units work independently from one another, they share many components that may surprise you. Some of the components shared by an AC system and furnace include the following.
- Fan
- Evaporator coils
- Air ductwork
- Thermostat
With the shared components, one malfunctioning unit could impair the other. Knowing the reasons for replacing both units at the same time will help homeowners make the right decisions for their comfort. If you need further guidance, continue reading and contact an HVAC technician.
Reasons for Replacing Them at the Same Time
We recommend our customers replace both units at the same time for multiple reasons. Homeowners are often surprised to learn why, but the reasons make perfect sense.
Matched Energy Efficiency
Most homeowners know a new heating or cooling unit is going to be more energy efficient than an older model. As these units age, wear and tear cause them to become less and less efficient. This is why you will see your energy costs begin to rise as the AC or furnace grows older.
When purchasing a new air conditioner or furnace, you will need to pay attention to the SEER rating. The seasonal energy efficiency rating is integral to your out-of-pocket costs. If you have a new unit with a high SEER rating and an old unit, the old unit is going to degrade the energy efficiency of the new system. You do not want this to occur after paying for a new unit.
With two new units that have matching SEER ratings, you are going to experience the full energy efficiency each unit offers. This is critical for heating and cooling your home.
Cost Effectiveness
If one unit is on its last leg, it can be tempting to try to save money by only replacing that unit. It is important for homeowners to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of replacing both units at the same time. In the long run, taking care of both will save homeowners on installation and labor costs, making the process more cost-effective.
Avoid High Repair Costs
The longer a homeowner attempts to keep an older air conditioner or furnace, the more they are going to pay for repairs. It is important to note that mismatched units can lead to malfunctions.
If the older system begins to malfunction, it can cause damage to the new unit. Homeowners could end up having to replace their newer unit much sooner because its lifespan is degraded.
Ensure Proper Compatibility
Because many homeowners think heating and cooling units are entirely separate, they may not realize two different units can be incompatible with one another.
For instance, a homeowner may try to pair a brand-new advanced air conditioner with a furnace that is ten years old. The two systems may be completely incompatible for multiple reasons, causing great headaches for homeowners.
Double Replacement May Be Unnecessary
Although we recommend homeowners replace both at the same time, this may not always be necessary. If only one unit is damaged, it may make sense to replace the older unit and repair the one that is still operating.
If both units are nearing the end of their lifespans, it is wise to replace them at the same time. We can evaluate the need for a double replacement and help homeowners make the best choice for their needs and budget.
What Is the Average Cost of Replacing Both at the Same Time?
The cost of replacing an air conditioner and furnace at the same time can vary, depending on the models you choose and the size. On average, a new furnace costs around $5,500. A new AC system costs between $3,800 to $7,500 to install.
If you choose to put them both in at the same time, the cost will be around $7,500, with an average of $5,000 to $12,500, saving you a lot of money.
How to Choose the Right AC and Furnace
If you decide to replace both, selecting the right compatible units will be essential. There are four main types of HVAC systems homeowners can choose.
Split Systems
A split system is one of the most common types of HVAC systems. This system consists of an indoor and outdoor unit that works together to heat or cool the home. The indoor and outdoor units are connected with copper tubing.
Duct-Free Systems
These HVAC systems consist of an outdoor condensing unit and single or multiple indoor units that heat and cool the home.
Hybrid Systems
In this HVAC setup, an air-source heat pump is backed up by a traditional furnace, offering heating and cooling capacities.
Packaged Heating and Cooling Systems
The best example of a packaged heating and cooling system is a heat pump that combines heating, cooling, and air-handling all in one single unit. These are cost-effective options when homeowners need to replace their old air conditioners and furnaces at the same time.
Discover Further Information Today
While it can be stressful considering the cost of replacing a heating or air conditioning unit, it is important to think ahead. You may want to save money by only replacing one of the units, but this may not be the best option for your needs.
We will help you determine which of the above options will be best for your home. Having the right HVAC system can make a significant difference in the comfort of a home and its energy savings.
Allow us to come out and inspect your home and current units. We can determine if it will be more cost-effective for you to replace them at the same time.