As the holiday draws near, it signals the end of another year. Many homeowners set aside time in late December to consider the status of their home, review minor and major improvements needed and to plan for the year ahead. If the summer of 2018 wreaked havoc on your air conditioner, or if your entire HVAC system is getting old and requires major upgrades or replacement, now is an excellent time to schedule an HVAC system inspection and estimate. Winter months are ideal for upgrading or replacing your air conditioner.
HVAC – An Intricate and Complex System
Home Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning systems and components (thermostat, air conditioner, furnace, ducts, condenser, refrigerant lines, fans, electrical motors and more) are very complex and need to be working perfectly for the entire system to deliver proper cooling and heating. Getting it just right can be extremely challenging for many homeowners. If your HVAC system and ducts were designed and installed correctly from the time the house was built, and you have a good, reliable well-serviced unit, then you’re probably not experiencing a lot of problems. However, if your system suffers from poor design or there were flaws in the initial installation you may be finding yourself in HVAC limbo. In other words, you’re not sure if you should repair and despair or invest in replacing the entire system.
A complete and thorough review will help you establish the status of your HVAC system. One thing is for certain, multiple service calls during the heat of the summer is not fun for anyone. Reactive maintenance means doing without AC while your unit is being repaired. It’s better to plan ahead and have your air conditioner in top form when the heat hits in spring.
Your Home’s HVAC System
Most air conditioners are built to last for 10 years or longer. However, the average life span of an AC unit in Arizona is shorter due to the extreme temperatures and heavy use for half the year. There are many items to consider when assessing whether to repair or replace your HVAC system, including:
- The Major Components – The major components of your air conditioner are; compressor, fan, condenser, evaporator coils and refrigerant lines. It helps if you have a detailed service record and history of these parts. If not, our service techs will establish whether they can be reliably trusted.
- Electrical Motors and Wiring – Electricity is not to be taken lightly. Motors and wiring can cause serious damage not only to your HVAC unit but to your house as well.
- Ventilation and Ductwork – Houses don’t breathe like they used to. Airtight doors and windows, and heavy insulation ensure that outside air stays out. This means your inside air delivery and return system must be perfect (no rips, tears or leaks) in order for your AC to be delivered properly to each room.
- Choosing the Right System – If your system is old and needs to be replaced you will be faced with numerous choices. Our experienced service techs will review options with you and help you decide which system is best for your home, be it:
- Split Systems
- Heat Pumps
- Single-Stage vs Two-Stage Air Conditioners
- Zoned HVAC Systems
- Gas Furnaces
- Electric Furnaces
The best way to digest this huge amount of information is with expert advice from an experienced professional who can explain not only the systems, but also which ones would work in your home.
We’re Happy to Provide You with All the Information You Need
If you’re in the process of looking ahead to 2019 and deciding what is best for your HVAC system, please give us a call and we’ll be happy to answer all your questions and provide the information you need. Why not call us today?
