Time for an Overhaul? Why an HVAC Retrofitting Could Be the Way to Go
Standards, technology, and federal energy-savings mandates (SEER ratings) change frequently. Older heating and cooling systems may begin experiencing the need for more frequent service calls yet still have enough life left in them not to warrant the expense of a complete upgrade to a new system.
In this case, the most economical and logical choice might be HVAC retrofitting. The best way to determine this is to consult with your HVAC service company. They can help evaluate whether it is in your best interest to retrofit or opt for an HVAC replacement. Here are some items that are good candidates for HVAC retrofitting:
- Flexible ductwork doesn’t last forever and will need to be replaced at some point. While inexpensive and easy to use, it will fall victim to the high heat in the attic at some point and can sag, collapse completely, or develop leaks. Rigid metal ducts are a better choice, generally only needing resealing at some point.
- Refrigerant standards have changed because of environmental concerns. If your existing system contains the older freon and you need the occasional refrigerant replacement, you may benefit from having all leaks sealed and upgrading to newer environment-friendly refrigerant.
- When you schedule your seasonal checkup your service technician can identify electronic or mechanical components that will soon fail. From a financial point of view it makes more sense to replace them at that time rather than before they do fail. The times failures occur are never convenient.
- Upgrading to a programmable thermostat from an old set-and-forget model will help your system operate more efficiently and will save you money on utility bills.
Our goal here at Sobieski Services is to help educate our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC & plumbing systems).
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