So you’ve got an old heating and cooling unit—right now it’s doing its job, but not at the level it used to. But…should you replace if it’s not completely broken yet? This is the debate of reactive vs. proactive HVAC replacement, and many homeowners are weighing their options

As a homeowner with a system that’s older or possibly a low-quality, builder-grade unit, should you think reactively or proactively about replacement? Consider the difference and what each could mean for your home comfort:

Reactive Replacement

What is a reactive replacement? Essentially, it just means waiting until your HVAC system fails to replace it. This is a very common thought process for most homeowners. Why spend money on something that’s still working? The biggest reason to replace your HVAC system BEFORE it breaks down is to avoid the panic, the financial strain, and the discomfort that surely awaits you should your system break down unexpectedly. Here are some of the difficulties you might encounter when working on a reactive timeline: 

• Timing — Depending on several factors, you might be stuck without A/C for quite a while. HVAC breakdowns are very common, and they seem to happen most often in extreme weather. That means contractors will be swamped with calls, potentially right when you need someone out in an emergency.
• Part Availability — Say you want to do all you can to repair your system instead of having to replace it. If your unit is old, the parts might not be readily available, if they’re even being manufactured at all. This could cause more waiting and frustration in a time when you just want the darn thing fixed!
• Will You Get A Good Deal? — If your system breaks down, you don’t have the luxury of shopping around for a good deal or fully exploring all of the options. You’ll be looking for the first available contractor who can install something to cool you off now, and because you don’t have the ability to take your time and determine what you really need and want, you might end up with a sub-par system.

Proactive Replacement

Proactive is a thought-out, planned replacement that allows you the ability to research and select the options you desire in a system, to choose a contractor you trust to install it and to ensure that you have the funds in place to purchase the system without the stress of an emergency install.

• Research Options — When it comes to choosing an HVAC system, there’s a whole lot more to it than just “find me the cheapest one.” You truly get what you pay for, and an HVAC system is an investment you shouldn’t go dirt-cheap on. You can upgrade to a high-efficiency system, or one that utilizes improved filtration, select which brand you trust, and spend the time discussing the size that will meet the needs of your home with your HVAC technician. You’ll have the time to choose wisely.
• No Stress, No Panic, And Savings To Top It Off — When your HVAC system breaks down, it’s a stressful, inconvenient, and expensive issue to handle in a panicked situation. A proactive approach helps you avoid that unnecessary stress and your new system can actually save you money in the long run.

If you’ve got an old clunker, chances are it’s costing you quite a bit to run, whereas newer models are built to be more efficient, even lower grade units. Proactive replacement will help you save money, time, and stress…and that might just be worth it! Give us a call and speak to one of our HVAC professionals for more tips today!