The HVAC (heating, cooling and air conditioning) system is an uncompromisable part of any property. It keeps your house or office cool in the summer and warm in the winter. But just like anything else in your space that uses electricity, your HVAC system isn’t going to stay forever. It’s going to break down, become less efficient and after a point, stop working.
The biggest question that people often have is whether to get their HVAC system repaired or replaced. Repairing means fixing defective components in the system, while replacing means taking down the original system and installing a new one in its place. Both services have their place, but the ‘right one’ for your HVAC system depends on its current condition. Let us help you understand both services so you can choose the best one based on your budget and energy efficiency requirements.
A Comparison Between HVAC Repair and HVAC Replacement
HVAC repair and replacement may seem similar, but they are two distinct services. Here’s a table to help you understand the different applications of the two:
| HVAC Repair | HVAC Replacement |
|---|---|
| Involves simple fixes, such as repairing a motor, clogged filter, malfunctioning breaker, or a coil. | Involves completely dismounting the existing HVAC system and installing a new one from scratch. |
| If your system is new (below 10-20 years), a repair may be just what you need to keep it functional. | If your HVAC system has aged beyond the average lifespan (20 years and above), consider a replacement. |
| If your HVAC system malfunctions only once in a while, repair is a better option than replacement. | If your HVAC system breaks down frequently even after repairs, it’s better to just get it replaced. |
| If you have a modern, energy-efficient, and generally well-functioning HVAC system, go for a repair. | If you have an outdated HVAC system that uses R-22 refrigerant, a replacement is necessary for compliance. |
| If repair costs are affordable and less than 50% the cost of a new HVAC system, a repair is a better option. | If repair costs are more than 50% the price of a new system, it’s more cost-efficient to get a replacement. |
| If there are isolated issues in the system, but you don’t get excessively high energy bills, repair is more cost-effective. | If you see a sudden increase in your energy bills over the past few months, you might need to replace your HVAC system. |
To summarize, HVAC repair services are the way to go when you’re satisfied with your HVAC system overall but there are some minor issues in certain components that can be fixed easily. On the other hand, HVAC replacement is a wiser choice when the system has aged or gotten damaged to the point where repairs just wouldn’t do much.
Signs You Should Get Your HVAC System Inspected Professionally
So now that you know how HVAC replacement and repair services are different, you may have the question ‘how do I even know if my HVAC system needs either of these services?’
Oftentimes, when HVAC systems malfunction, it’s not always so obvious. Your air conditioner may still be working, but it wouldn’t be as efficient, and you may have to keep it at the lowest temperature just to get some cooling. You may think it’s just a coincidence, but quite often, this is a sign your HVAC system needs to be fixed.
Here are some of the major red flags in HVAC systems that necessitate an inspection by a professional HVAC contractor:
- Are you getting rattling, clicking or buzzing sounds from your AC or heating systems? Perhaps the HVAC compressors are clogged and need to be cleaned.
- Are there uneven temperatures in different parts of your residential or commercial property? The HVAC system may have air leaks that need to be repaired.
- Does your furnace keep turning on and off intermittently? This short cycling, that usually takes place because of a malfunctioning thermostat or blocked vents.
- Do you get these rotten smells near the HVAC system or in different rooms? Mold spores may have multiplied inside the HVAC system, causing the problem.
- Are you or others getting allergies all of a sudden even though the weather is clear? Probably it’s because the HVAC system is circulating dirty air.
- Do you see water pooling outside the HVAC unit? Leaks can reduce the system’s efficiency, so it’s important to get them sealed as soon as possible.
Why It’s Important to Install a Correctly Sized HVAC System
When it comes to HVAC systems, bigger isn’t always better. One of the most common misconceptions people have is that if they install a large-sized HVAC system, they’ll get better cooling in the summer.
The reality of the matter is that if your HVAC system is too big or too small, it will short cycle quite frequently and you’ll have to get it replaced soon anyway. Incorrectly sized systems work harder to provide you with the required energy output, which damages their components faster than a properly sized system.
If your HVAC system isn’t working efficiently, reach out to a professional HVAC technician in New Jersey. They usually work out the right size for your home based on load calculations and also assist you with HVAC installations based on your energy requirements. It’s better to get an incorrectly sized system replaced before it fails prematurely or leads to an accident.
Trust the Best in The Industry for HVAC Repair and Replacement!
Are you tired of feeling uncomfortable in your home or office due to a failing HVAC system? Whether it’s natural wear and tear, debris buildup, a clogged component, or an improperly sized unit, HVAC issues can disrupt your comfort fast.
At Alpha HVAC New Jersey, we specialize in both HVAC repair and replacement. Our certified technicians bring years of hands-on experience to quickly diagnose and resolve your system’s problems—no guesswork, no shortcuts. We’re not done until you’re fully satisfied with the performance of your heating and cooling systems.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your HVAC service and enjoy a comfortable indoor environment—just the way you want it.