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When Should You Replace HVAC or Plumbing? Here’s How To Know.

replace HVAC and plumbing
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Greer homeowners rely on efficient, functional HVAC and plumbing to stay comfortable year-round. Older equipment may not be up to the job, even if you’ve done a great job keeping it maintained over its functional lifespan. If it's time to replace your HVAC or plumbing components, consider these common signs your home needs an upgrade!

Three Signs It’s Time To Replace Your HVAC System

If your furnace, heater, air conditioning unit, or heat pump is showing any of the following issues, it might be time to upgrade. Remember that even with regular maintenance, high-quality HVAC equipment should be replaced every 10 to 30 years.

1. Your HVAC System Constantly Breaks Down

Older equipment may require frequent, expensive HVAC repairs, especially at the most inconvenient times. If you’re facing recurring repairs on an HVAC system that is a decade old or older, it’s probably time to consider switching to an energy-efficient heat pump.

2. Your HVAC System Is More Than 15 Years Old

While the exact expected lifespan of HVAC equipment varies, furnaces, central air conditioning units, and heaters typically last 15-25 years. Heat pumps and ductless mini-splits have shorter lifespans, usually 10-20 years. If your equipment is past the halfway point in its lifespan, ask your Five Star Air Conditioning Heating Plumbing Electrical technician for a detailed assessment.

Regular maintenance, correct sizing, and the quality of initial installation all play a role in your equipment’s longevity.

3. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing

Old equipment is generally less energy efficient. That lack of efficiency only increases as older equipment wears out due to age, poor maintenance, or other problems. If you notice rising gas or electricity usage and costs, consider this a warning sign to replace your HVAC. Schedule an inspection to determine whether it’s time to replace your HVAC system.

Read More: The Best Home Upgrades to Maximize ROI

When Is the Best Time To Replace Your HVAC System?

The best time to replace your heating or cooling system is during the spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate. This is typically considered the off-season for Greer HVAC companies, including Five Star Air Conditioning Heating Plumbing Electrical; this allows us to provide more flexible scheduling.

Questions To Ask When Replacing an HVAC System

Our team will walk you through the entire process. We’ll be prepared to answer these important questions before, during, and after your upgrade:

  • What size system do I need?
  • Are there any federal, state, or local rebates available for the recommended equipment?
  • What are the most energy-efficient options for my home?
  • What is the warranty on the new equipment, and what does it cover?

Common Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Plumbing

Even minor plumbing issues can escalate, especially in older systems. Factors such as corrosion and age increase the risk of significant plumbing problems; here’s how you can tell when it’s time to upgrade your system.

1. Frequent Leaks

Leaks happen, but multiple leaks in different areas of your home indicate the entire system is weakening. Leaks are usually caused by faulty valves or corrosion. Left unaddressed (or unnoticed), leaks can cause expensive water damage and mold, and can compromise the structural integrity of your home.

2. Discolored Water

Yellow, brown, or cloudy water is often a sign of pipe corrosion. Rust and mineral deposits break away, causing discoloration and compromising the pipes' interior.

3. Low Water Pressure

A noticeable, gradual drop in water pressure indicates that mineral build-up is restricting water flow within the pipes. This often leads to leaks or burst pipes.

What Does It Cost To Update Plumbing?

The cost to update plumbing in your home varies based on several factors, including the size of your home, the type of piping material, the accessibility of your plumbing for technicians (which affects the project timeline), and the costs of any necessary permits. We’ll give you a detailed quote, so you know how much your plumbing upgrade will cost.

Questions To Ask When Replacing Whole House Plumbing

Learn as much as you can about your current plumbing system and what the contractor recommends. Here are a few questions to ask before upgrading your plumbing:

  • What pipe material do you recommend and why?
  • How long will the project take?
  • What is the warranty, and what does it cover?
  • Are you licensed and insured?

Your Local Home Service Pros

Homeowners in Spartansburg, Taylors, and beyond count on our team for prompt, professional home services. From emergency HVAC repairs to a detailed plumbing system replacement, our highly trained technicians combine excellent customer service and exceptional skill. For an honest assessment of your HVAC and plumbing system, contact our team today!

Contact us today or call 864-306-4898 to schedule your appointment and live more comfortably in your home.