You rely on your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit to keep your work environment comfortable as the weather changes. But, like any piece of equipment, there will come a time when its performance will take a dip or even break down. When this moment happens, you’ll need to ask a very important question: Can the system be repaired, or is it time to get it replaced? This blog focuses on how to find the answer to that pressing question.
Repair vs. Replace HVAC Services
When determining repair or replacement, there are a few factors you’ll need to consider. For instance, will commercial HVAC repair restore the system’s functionality? Is it too soon to perform HVAC replacement? Would purchasing a new energy-efficient commercial HVAC be worth it in the long run?
These factors and more need to be weighed against each other. This will allow you to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of both options. With this insight, you’ll be able to make the right decision for your business. If this sounds too difficult, an HVAC consultant, like John’s Service and Sales, Inc., can help you find the answer you’re looking for.
Common Factors to Look Out For
There will be situations where the answer is clear, like when the unit stops working completely. However, for the times when the answer is less obvious, here are a few things to think about.
- Age: How old is your building’s HVAC? Most HVACs have a life expectancy of about 15 years. If your unit is around 10 years old or older, then it may be in your best interest to start shopping around. However, if the system is still working mostly issue-free, then there’s no immediate need to replace it and repair should be fine.
- Safety: The safety of the occupants in your building should never be put in jeopardy just to save some money. Something like a cracked heat exchanger could release toxic fumes throughout the building. If you think it presents a hazard, venture on the side of caution and get it replaced.
- Breakdown Frequency: Do you feel like your HVAC system is continually breaking down? If you’ve been forced to call in a technician for repairs more than a few times within the span of a year or two, it may be a good idea to go with a replacement.
- Repair Costs: This is related to breakdown frequency. Consider the return on investment you’re getting from repairing your HVAC. If it’s gotten to the point where you’re spending about the same or more on repair as it would cost to do a replacement, then it’s time for a new HVAC.
- Efficiency: You’ll be able to tell if your HVAC is losing efficiency by the price of your energy bill. If it is steadily rising from month to month, then there’s an issue. Repairs are often enough to restore efficiency, but if it’s not, then it may be best to replace the equipment.
- Noise: An HVAC that’s running the way it’s meant to should be fairly quiet. However, it’s not uncommon to hear sounds like squeaking or grinding as the system gets older. When this happens, a technician can take a look to find the origin of the noise and fix it.
Benefits of Repair
More often than not, repair services will be all your commercial HVAC needs. This is a simpler option that comes with a much smaller price tag than HVAC replacement. Keep in mind that with replacement, you’re not just paying for the service, you’re also paying for a new machine.
Benefits of Replacement
Unless you don’t care about how much money your company is spending, replacement should always be considered the last option. However, it does come with a few nifty benefits. For example, if your new HVAC is a high-efficiency model—it will come with an ENERGY STAR label—you could get tax credits and incentives.
Complete HVAC Repair and Replacement Services
Whether you need commercial HVAC repair or replacement, the experts at John’s Service and Sales, Inc. are here to help. We are a team of highly experienced technicians who are ready to deliver the HVAC solutions your company needs.
Contact us today to learn more about our services.
