If your air conditioner fails but your furnace still works fine (or vice versa), it may be tempting to replace only the part that’s broken. While this might be a bit cheaper at first, it can actually end up costing you much more in the long run. With that in mind, here are the reasons why you should replace both units together.
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Today’s Units are Much More Efficient
Modern systems are far more advanced than any that we’ve seen thus far. In the 1980s, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, or SEER, for the average air conditioner was 7 or less. Since 2006, companies have been required to offer a SEER rating of at least 13. The higher this number, the lower the cost of operation, thanks to less energy usage.
Furnaces of that time also struggled. They were lucky to have 60% efficiency, while today’s units typically have 90% annual fuel utilization efficiency, or AFUE. Holding on to an older unit means wasting energy (an in turn, money) each time it’s used.
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An Entirely New System Performs Better
Just like batteries, it’s never recommended to mix old and new technology when it comes to maintaining the temperature in your house. When you replace only one part of the system, you effectively lower the performance of that part. Even if it’s significantly better than the equipment you’re replacing, you won’t see the full potential because of the energy loss from the older components.
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Matching Setups Complement One Another
Today’s systems are made to work together. Companies use their most powerful technology to ensure everything runs together as one efficient machine. Since the AC and furnace share an air handler, replacing them both at the same time will ensure each piece gets the amount of air it needs to function at maximum capacity.
Buying a whole new matching setup also puts all the equipment on the same warranty timeline. You’ll never have to worry about one part being covered while another is not.
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You’ll Save on Installation
If installation costs $500 for the air conditioner or furnace independently, but $700 all together, you could be losing a lot of money down the road. Instead of waiting for the other component to fail, have new ones installed together. The additional cost for the other unit may even be offset by the installation price when done separately.
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A New Component Might Make the Other Obsolete
Picture this: You just purchased a brand new air conditioner and an advanced, touchscreen climate control system. Once cooler weather comes around, you figure out that your existing furnace is not compatible with the new thermostat. You’ll be forced to pay more for an emergency unit and installation than you would if you had planned ahead.
Adding a new heating and cooling system can increase the value and energy efficiency of your home — but it’s important that you do it right. If you want the maximum benefit, replace the entire setup at once. Contact our team for more information.