As a homeowner in Indianapolis, IN, when it’s time to buy a new heating system or air conditioner, it’s common to wonder if it makes sense to replace both HVAC devices at once. In reality, this depends on a handful of things.
Installing new components is a big investment, so the decision must be weighed carefully. If you need help deciding what to do, we’re here. We’ve written a guide to show you when you should and shouldn’t replace your furnace and AC at the same time.
When to Get a New Furnace and AC
There are a number of different specific circumstances where it makes sense to replace both devices. They include:
You’re Closing in on Retirement Age – Before you’re set to live on a fixed income, it’s probably a good idea to ensure your household is in order.
Homeowners who are closing in on retirement should consider replacing both their furnaces and air conditioners.
You’re Getting an Eco-Friendly Unit – Something to keep in mind is both your furnace and air conditioner share some of the same components.
If you buy a new device that’s eco-friendly, but you decide to keep the other furnace or air conditioner, your new machine might not operate at its full potential. If you want to make sure your HVAC system is as energy efficient as possible, you should replace both devices at one time.
The Furnace Is Over 10 Years Old – Furnaces last about 20 years, compared to 10 years for air conditioners. Replacing only a furnace will cost about $2,000-$5,000, but getting it together with a new AC will only be an extra $1,000-$2,000. If your furnace is over 10 years old, it makes sense from a financial standpoint to install two new devices at the same time.
Installing New Devices Is Difficult – It’s common for contractors to charge a bit more if they know a job will take more time and effort to pull off. If your HVAC system is hidden or behind a crawl space, replacing any devices might be more expensive than normal. In the end, it might make more sense to replace both your furnace and air conditioner simultaneously.
Reasons to Not Install a New AC and Furnace
Replacing a furnace and air conditioner at the same time rather than just one will cost an additional amount of money.
If you can’t afford it, don’t feel pressured to get the second replacement.
As well, if a furnace that’s less than 10 years old shouldn’t need to be replaced. It’s always wise to consider your needs and budget before making these types of decisions.
Always Ask a Professional to Inspect Your HVAC System
You shouldn’t get a new furnace or air conditioner without consulting an HVAC professional beforehand.
Ask them to inspect your system and give an honest assessment of both devices. They will be able to tell you if it makes sense to replace them.
It’s possible, with regular maintenance; you can extend the lifetime of both units.
