What to Expect When Replacing Your HVAC System

There are so many benefits to owning a home, but upkeeping a property can be a huge responsibility. Over time, different key elements must be repaired, or sometimes replaced, in order to keep your home a safe and comfortable place to live. Your HVAC system is an important part of your home and will require routine maintenance.

What is an HVAC System?

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It is most commonly referred to as A/C, as it is the system that controls the quality and temperature of the air in an indoor facility or vehicle.

How Do I Know I Need to Replace it?

There are a few signs that your HVAC system is on the fritz and needs professional attention. If you notice your energy bill is unnecessarily rising, your HVAC system might be working harder than it’s supposed to be, or if you notice that your thermostat is not working properly, or the system itself is making more noise than usual or is omitting an odd or unpleasant odor, it could be a sign of a looming end for your HVAC system.

How Large of a System do I Need For My Home?

The size (tonnage) of your needed HVAC system depends on the age, square footage of your home, and also the climate of where you are located. The bigger the house, the bigger the system you will need. Getting a system that is too big or too small will end up costing you more in energy costs down the road, so be sure to have an idea of you will need in addition to having a professional inspection. Here is a general chart you can use in your initial research.

• Up to 1300 sq ft      – 1.5 ton
• 1300 to 1700 sq ft  – 1.5 ton
• 1700 to 2500 sq ft  – 2 to 2.5 ton
• 2500 to 3500 sq ft  – 2.5 to 3 ton
• 3500 to 4500 sq ft  – 3.5 to 4 ton

How Much Will Completely Replacing My HVAC System Cost?

Depending on the scope of the job, replacing your entire HVAC system can cost anywhere from $6,000 – $20,000. This number is dependent on many factors like the size of the system needed and how much of the system needs to be completely replaced. The various parts that make up your HVAC system include the air handler, the furnace, the duct installation, the unit itself, the thermostat, and many others. On top of the actual system, there could be unforeseen issues as is typical in home repairs. Your technician will do his or her best to give you an accurate quote, but there is always potential for surprise expenses like a need for electrical upgrade, drywall replacement, or rotten wall studs. Many of these issues, and more, would not be discovered until the work begins.

How Long Will the Job Take?

After you have hired your contractor and chosen your new system, the actual work can typically be done in one day by a crew of 2-3 people. Depending on your specific needs, it could take a little longer.

How Can I Help the Day of Crew?

Because of the dust that might be created in the installation process, the crew might lay protective covering over certain areas of the floor or furniture in specific work spaces. In order to help speed up the process, you can move any antique or very valuable/irreplaceable items out of the work area. Many technicians would prefer not to handle your most valuable pieces due to liability, so moving them to a safe place beforehand is wise. Also, if you have any pets, keep them removed from the area where the work will be done.

While the cost and scope of work might seem overwhelming, having high quality and temperature controlled air is an important part of your personal health, comfort, and long term finances. If you are having any issues with your HVAC system, or it is over 10 years old, a simple inspection might save you from greater issues down the road.