Keep Cool This Summer - Now's the Time for HVAC Replacement

April 18, 2022

Summary

One thing you can count on in the Dallas/Fort Worth area is hot summers. And those warm temperatures will be here before you know it. If you've been considering a new air conditioning unit for your home, it's a good idea to get the job done now, before the mercury rises. In this article, we'll look at why your HVAC system may need an upgrade and examine some of the reasons you should consider HVAC replacement now.

Contents

Now is the best time to replace your air conditioning system

When is the best time to get a new air conditioning unit? When you need it, of course, however, there are also some very smart reasons to get the job done now. Let's examine a few of them.

Costs go up in the summer

It's a simple matter of supply and demand. In the cooler months of spring here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, there isn't as much demand for new air conditioning units. But if you wait to upgrade your cooling system until summer, you'll find that prices for an HVAC unit replacement or new air conditioner will be significantly higher, because of the demand for equipment and labor costs.

You'll beat the rush

Upgrading your air conditioning system when the weather is hot will likely mean a long wait before you can get the work done. In Dallas/Fort Worth we see significant increases in demand when the temperatures rise. That means you'll have to wait to get the job done, at the very time you'll probably want a new air conditioner the most!

You can lock in prices before inflation

With the current supply chain disruptions, shortages of materials, and inflationary pressures. For the time being, at least, it appears that rising prices are a reality. By getting your job scheduled now and locking in prices, you'll save money and beat higher HVAC system costs.

Why should you replace your HVAC system?

If you have a central air conditioner you don't need to be sold on the advantages. But even if you realize that older systems don't offer all the advantages of a new unit, you may be hesitant to make the change to a new HVAC system. Here are some good reasons why now may be the perfect time for that new system.

Your system is aging

Even if you've been keeping up on maintenance, the average lifespan of an HVAC system or air conditioning system is about 15 years. And if you haven't been scrupulous about maintenance you may be keeping cool on borrowed time. Additionally, a poorly maintained system will not run efficiently, resulting in higher utility bills.

New systems will keep you more comfortable

Manufacturers are always improving their products, your HVAC replacement will provide better airflow and better control than your old air conditioner does.

You'll enjoy better air quality

A good HVAC system will improve your home's indoor air quality, by filtering your air and maintaining humidity at acceptable levels.

You can integrate new systems into your smart home

If you like the idea of fingertip control of your home's heating and cooling anytime, anywhere, you'll love how you can integrate a new HVAC system into your smart home. Once you start controlling your cooling and heating with your smartphone or voice controls, you'll never want to go back to the old way.

You'll bump up your home's value

If your home goes on the market, one of the first things potential buyers will look at is the condition and age of the HVAC system. If an HVAC replacement has been done recently, you'll be able to ask top dollar.

Signs you should replace your system

Are you still holding out on making an upgrade to a new system? If any of these signs seem familiar, you're probably overdue for an air conditioning upgrade.

Frequent repairs

Regular maintenance is fine. But if you're seeing your AC technician more often than you'd like. Sure, you'll usually spend more money on a repair than on a new HVAC system, but you'll save money over the long haul.

Age

As we've noted, even the best-maintained systems have a finite working lifespan. If your system is 10 to 15 years old, it's time to start preparing for a replacement air conditioner.

Poor airflow

Old, dirty filters can impede airflow. But if the replacement doesn't improve the airflow, and your air conditioning isn't keeping up on hot days, you probably have a serious problem.

Excessive condensation or leakage

Excessive condensation around your air conditioning units is often a sign of a poorly operating HVAC system.

High energy bills

Heating and cooling costs can vary. But if your energy costs are suddenly jumping compared to your historical averages, your system is sending a message that it's time for an air conditioner replacement.

Unusual sounds and smells

If you're hearing unusual sounds when your system is running, or if you are detecting musty smells, get your system checked.

How big a system do I need?

If you don't work with HVAC systems you can certainly be forgiven for not knowing how large your new system needs to be. But it is important that you have some understanding of the topic. While reputable contractors will make an accurate determination of your HVAC system needs, being an educated consumer is important.

With a little knowledge, you'll be able to make better and more informed decisions and get the right HVAC unit replacement for your home.

The Manual J calculation method

A Manual J calculation is the gold standard for determining the correct size for HVAC systems. It's the best system because it takes into account a large number of variables, including:

  • Square footage of your home
  • The climate zone your house is located in
  • The existing ductwork in your home
  • The number and style of windows
  • How much natural shade or sunlight your home receives
  • The quality and amount of insulation
  • The number of people using the space
  • The presence of heat-generating appliances

That's a lot to consider. Experienced contractors are used to using the Manual J calculation so it's not difficult for them to quickly arrive at an accurate estimate for the size of your home's HVAC unit replacement.

If you'd like to try doing your own Manual J calculation, check out this primer.

The Square Footage system

While not as accurate as Manual J calculations, you can get a rough estimate of the size of the system you need by consulting a Square Footage table or BTU calculator. This example makes it easy to estimate your needs. While the results aren't perfect, they're a good starting point when you're discussing HVAC unit replacement with an HVAC contractor.

How to find the best contractor

As a homeowner in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, you know the weather can change quickly., and a few warm spring days can quickly turn into a sweltering heatwave when you'll rely on your HVAC units to keep you cool. So finding the best contractor to tackle your HVAC replacement is vital. Here are three key questions to ask when checking out HVAC contractors.

Are they licensed and insured?

As a prerequisite, it's important that you hire a reputable and licensed contractor for your job. At the minimum, a license indicates that the company has met the basic criteria of knowledge and experience required to legally offer its services.

And while job site accidents are rare, your contractor should have insurance that will cover damage to your home and protect you from liability.

Do they have references and referrals?

There are numerous social media channels that provide reviews of contractors and tradespeople. Read through what former customers have to say about the work former customers have done for them. In addition, ask for references from former clients.

Is their staff well trained?

New equipment and new technologies are constantly being introduced in the HVAC field. Check to see if the contractor you're considering has technicians that have received the latest training in their field.

The replacement process

If you've done your homework and found a new HVAC system and the team to install it, it's useful to know what to expect when the day comes for your air conditioner replacement. By preparing, you'll make the job easier for the installation team and have clear expectations.

Be sure to ask how long the job will take

An experienced contractor will know how long the installation job should take, and will set your expectations accordingly. While all jobs are different, it's not unusual to have the job completed in a day. Be sure to ask when you're getting an estimate for the job.

Prepare the area where the work will be done

Ensure that the area around your existing unit is easy to access. This small investment of time on your part will let the crew get right to work. In addition, you won't have to worry about where they may have moved your possessions.

What you should expect from the crew

If work needs to be done inside your home, you should expect the crew to cover any flooring or furniture to prevent dust and debris from building up.

They'll then shut off power to your HVAC system and begin disassembling the existing equipment. This should not affect power to the rest of your home, but you will not have any heating or cooling during the installation.

If necessary, alterations or repairs may need to be made to existing ductwork. Be sure you're available to direct the crew to access your attic or crawl spaces as necessary.

Once the old equipment is gone and your ductwork installation is completed (if necessary), the crew will begin installing the components of your system. This can include heat pumps, air handlers, thermostats, supply and drain lines, and much more. Make sure you're available to answer any questions the installation crew may have.

Once the installation is completed, and the system is up and running, the crew should allow an inspection of the job, and inform you of operating procedures, warranties, and more. Be sure that you have all the necessary manuals and warranty information before they leave.

Why Team Enoch is the right choice for your job

If you're in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, your best choice for an HVAC system replacement is Team Enoch.

Team Enoch is committed to providing high-quality products and workmanship to our customers, at a price that's fair. With over 2500 positive reviews, and over 10,000 jobs completed every year, we pride ourselves on ensuring that our well-trained technicians do the job right the first time.

At Team Enoch we have extensive experience in designing and installing air conditioning for homes both large and small; new and old. We have the experience to help you pick the right gear, then install it properly. And once your new system is in place, you can count on us for regular checkups and maintenance to keep it running at peak efficiency.

If you're in the Dallas Fort Worth area and are ready to upgrade your air conditioning before the hot summer months, Team Enoch has the expertise to help your out. Contact us for all your home heating and cooling needs. Remember, estimates are always free!

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