Should I Repair or Replace My HVAC System

Repairing or replacing a struggling HVAC system is among the most challenging decisions a homeowner faces.

A repair might take a smaller bite out of your budget in the short term, but a new energy-efficient system reduces utility bills, saving even more money in the long run.

However, when a repair will suffice, you do not want to replace an entire heating and cooling system needlessly.   

Here at H.L. Bowman, we have spent decades helping our neighbors choose the best comfort systems for their Central Pennsylvania homes.

We are a full-service HVAC, plumbing, and electrical company in Dauphin County with heating and cooling experts in oil and gas furnaces, boilers, geothermal and air-source heat pumps, gas fireplaces, and air conditioning, both ducted and ductless. 

Although no single answer fits all circumstances for homeowners contemplating HVAC repair or replacement in Red Lion, we want to help you understand key factors so you can make an informed decision about your options. As ENERGY STAR^® points out, nearly half of the energy used in your home is for heating and cooling.

The decisions you make about your HVAC system can significantly affect your energy bills. We hope this guide to replacement and repair helps!

When You Should Repair Your HVAC

For many common HVAC problems, a simple repair is the most logical and cost-effective solution. However, if your HVAC system is relatively new—typically less than 10 years old—a professional repair is almost always the answer.

Issues like a clogged condensate drain line, a broken fan belt, or a worn start capacitor are relatively inexpensive fixes.

Replacing a major component, such as a blower motor, makes sense if your unit has years of life left. The key is to weigh the severity of the problem versus the overall health and age of your HVAC system.

You can trust a certified H.L. Bowman technician to assess your unit’s condition and recommend honest, understandable solutions.

HVAC Replacement Warning Signs

When do you stop sinking money into an old system and start thinking about a replacement? Consider these red flags: 

System Age: The average lifespan of an air conditioner or a furnace is about 15 to 20 years. If your system is approaching or has passed this point, it is likely inefficient and may need frequent repairs.

Frequent Breakdowns: Repairing multiple problems just to keep the unit running can quickly stress your budget. At some point, the cumulative cost of repairs can easily exceed the price of a new, reliable system.

Rising Energy Bills: As an outdated heating and cooling system ages, its efficiency plummets. It has to work harder and run longer to keep your Red Lion, home comfortable, which means it wastes energy and costs you more money. You will notice a steady increase in utility bills.

Uneven Cooling or Heating: A failing blower, old ductwork, or an inefficient system are a few reasons your heating and cooling unit does not distribute air evenly. You will notice that certain rooms are colder or hotter than others. 

Odd Noises: Is your HVAC system emitting loud grinding, squealing, or banging sounds? Call us at H.L. Bowman for a diagnosis. Replacing a mechanical component that literally screams its impending failure might get your heating and cooling system back on track, or it could be a sign that the entire system is on the verge of collapse.

New System Benefits

Investing in a new HVAC system avoids the stress, inconvenience, and repair costs associated with a breakdown, but the most significant benefit is energy efficiency. Replacing an outdated system also improves your home’s efficiency, comfort, and value. 

Modern heating and cooling systems have higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER2) ratings and annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings than older models. SEER 2 rates cooling system efficiency, and AFUE measures how efficiently furnaces and boilers convert fuel into heat.

High-efficiency systems use less energy to produce the same results, leading to long-term savings on your utility bills. 

New systems also use advanced technology you won’t find in older units. Modern York and Bryant systems, for example, offer smart features and superior performance. A York Affinity Series heat pump uses a variable-speed compressor for quiet, precision cooling, while a Bryant Evolution Series furnace offers unparalleled heating efficiency with intelligent controls. 

These units not only improve comfort but also come with the peace of mind of a solid warranty.

Call the HVAC Experts Today!

Get a professional opinion to help you decide if your Red Lion, PA, home would benefit from an HVAC system replacement or repair. Our H.L. Bowman experts can thoroughly inspect your heating and cooling unit, diagnose its issues, and give you a clear, unbiased cost-benefit analysis of both options. 

Why wait for your system to fail? Let H.L. Bowman recommend the best solution for a comfortable home. Call us at 717-287-5504 or request service online.