Central Florida is known for being a hub of extreme heat and humidity. In times like these, having a reliable HVAC system in your home is essential for surviving temperatures of all kinds, but what happens when your system unexpectedly breaks? Chances are there’s a reasonable explanation for it, but now you’re left with how to move forward: repairing your system or replacing it altogether.
At Aloha Air, we understand that tending to a broken HVAC system can place a lot of stress on you as a homeowner. We prioritize helping our clients in a professional and timely manner, but it can still be overwhelming to decide in a short amount of time whether repairing your HVAC system is worth it in the long run or if you’re better off buying a completely new system.
We also want to make sure that you’re satisfied with our services, which includes free on-site consultations from our professionals to answer any questions you may have about your current system and what to do next. If you’re struggling to come up with a decision that’s right for you, here is a list of factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your broken system.
1. The Age of Your Old Unit
Most HVAC systems in Florida will generally last somewhere between 10-15 years, more or less. If your system is nearing the end of this life span, it may be time to consider a replacement. While replacing your system may seem like a more expensive option, it could actually end up becoming a better investment for you in the years to come. Repairing a system that’s on its last leg will make you more susceptible to further repairs in the future and more unexpected payments, costing you valuable time and money.
If your system is less than 10 years old, then repairing can still be a practical option. What keeps a unit running for longer and more efficiently is proper maintenance and care, and for homeowners in Florida, an ideal plan would be to get your unit serviced at least twice a year.
2. Cost and Budget
While repairing a broken HVAC system may end up costing more for you over the years, buying a brand new system can turn out to be a pretty hefty expense. At Aloha Air, we know that the unexpected cost of replacing an entire unit can be overwhelming, which is why we offer interest-free financing options to help you better manage these prices.
However, if you’re still tentative about making such a big purchase, then repairing your system can still be a viable option for you. Think of your broken system as a warning: there’s still a chance to fix what’s not running properly, but this possibility lessens with time. Being aware of your options can allow you to set plans in motion that work better with your budget. Maybe you’ll opt to repair your system now which gives you more time to save up and prepare for a replacement in the future.
3. Moving In / Moving Out
Have you recently moved into a new home? It’s more than likely that your HVAC system is already a good amount of years into its life span. Most HVAC systems have the manufacturer date labeled on the unit itself, which is a great way for you to double check the age for yourself. If your system does turn out to be more on the older side, it may be beneficial for you to start considering replacement options. Not only will a new system last you longer, but you’ll also be more informed about the system itself.
On the other hand, if you’re planning on moving out of your home soon, then replacing the unit may not be the most logical option. After all, why spend money on a brand new system if you’re not going to be around to use most of its lifespan? Repairs can give you enough time to move out without any hassles and will also be less of a sudden expense to deal with.
4. Satisfaction and Needs
A broken HVAC system can be an ideal time to reflect on whether or not you’re satisfied with the features you already have or if there’s more that you want out of your system. Advancements in HVAC technology means newer systems with newer features, most of which you may not have even considered could benefit you. If you want to be more environmentally conscious, there are many eco-friendly options you could switch to. Smart thermostats are also a newer feature that gives you more flexibility in managing your unit.
As HVAC technology advances, replacing also means upgrading. Having a new unit can be a great reassurance that your system is running more efficiently than before, which can also lead to lower monthly electric bills. At Aloha Air, we’re proud to offer all makes and models for new installations, which means that with plenty of options to choose from, you won’t miss out on the best one for you.
There are many factors to consider when your HVAC system unexpectedly breaks, including cost, time, and more. Aloha Air understands that this can be a very difficult and stressful decision to make, which is why we’re available to help answer any questions you may have regarding repairs or new installations.