Should You Replace Your AC and Furnace at the Same Time?

Many homeowners are faced with whether to replace their air conditioning (AC) and furnace units simultaneously or separately.? 

While there are no rules for HVAC replacement, there are several factors to consider when making this decision. Replacing both units at once can offer several benefits. However, it can also be more expensive upfront.? 

Conversely, replacing one unit at a time may be more affordable in the short term but can lead to more significant costs and inconvenience. 

So, what’s the ideal thing to do? Before you search “heating and cooling near me” on Google, here are some things you should know. 

Cost Savings 

Replacing both your furnace and AC units at the same time can lead to cost savings in several ways.? 

First, when you replace both units, you can ensure that they are compatible and designed to work together efficiently. This is because newer AC and furnace units are designed to work together in a system known as a matched system. This system is optimized for maximum efficiency and performance for those who don’t know.? 

Next, replacing both units at once can help you save on installation costs. Note that many HVAC companies offer discounts or package deals when you purchase multiple units or services simultaneously.? 

Energy Efficiency 

When you replace AC and furnaces, you can ensure that they are designed to work together efficiently. This leads to better overall performance and energy savings.? 

By upgrading to newer, more energy-efficient models, you can potentially reduce your energy consumption and lower your monthly utility bills. This is because newer AC and furnace units are typically designed with energy-saving features such as higher SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for AC units and higher AFUE ratings (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) for furnaces.? 

In addition, newer units often use more environmentally-friendly refrigerants and heating fuels with a lower environmental impact. 

Avoid Premature Malfunctioning 

Replacing your furnace and AC units simultaneously can help you avoid premature malfunctioning of either unit. You can ensure that they are compatible and designed to work together efficiently.? 

This is because when two units are mismatched, they can put additional strain on each other. By upgrading both units at the same time, you can avoid the potential cost and inconvenience of having to replace one unit prematurely due to compatibility issues or other related problems. 

In addition, newer units are often more reliable and require fewer repairs than older models, reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns and related expenses. 

When to Replace Only One Unit? 

While replacing both your furnace and AC units at the same time can offer several benefits, there are situations where it may be more appropriate to replace only one unit.? 

For example, if one unit has already been recently replaced and is still functioning well, replacing it at the same time as the other unit may not be necessary.? 

Additionally, if your budget does not allow for replacing both units at once, it may be more feasible to replace one unit now and the other later.