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

If your furnace or air conditioner is struggling to heat or cool your home, it may be time to replace them. Yes, replace both simultaneously, even if only one is malfunctioning. This is necessary because both are usually combined into one HVAC system and therefore require compatibility.

Here’s how the two work together and why replacing them at the same time can be beneficial.

How Does a Furnace Work With AC?

Although the two may seem separate, your furnace and air conditioner share:

• A fan
• Air ducts
• Evaporator coils
• A thermostat

Why Should You Replace a Furnace and AC at the Same Time?

Your furnace and air conditioner work together to make the air in your home comfortable. Replacing only one and leaving the other could cause complications that reduce your energy efficiency or cause malfunctions or system failure.

Some other important reasons to consider replacing them together are to:

• Match energy efficiency. Since there are several elements that both the furnace and AC share, you may lose energy efficiency by pairing a mismatched system. If the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of your new system is higher than your old system, keeping the older AC or furnace will drag the new unit’s efficiency down.
• Keep it cost-effective. If one unit needs to be replaced and the other has neared or exceeded its age expectancy, the cost of labor will be less together than it would be for separate installments.
• Avoid malfunction or premature failure. Although two different systems can be matched together if an older system malfunctions, it can damage the new system and require premature repairs or replacement.
• Ensure compatibility. Trying to pair, say, a new state-of-the-art AC with a decade-old furnace could be more of a headache than it’s worth. Both systems may not be fully compatible for any number of reasons.

It’s worth noting that replacing your furnace and AC unit all at once isn’t always necessary. Replacing one and repairing the other may be a better option if only one unit is damaged beyond repair. However, if both units need to be replaced, there are some energy- and cost-efficient options to consider.

Related Topic:6 Warning Signs Your Furnace Might Be Failing

More Energy-Efficient Replacement Options

If you have to replace either your furnace or AC, you can better reduce your carbon footprint and monthly home energy costs by:

• Installing an air-source heat pump that will serve as your new heater and air conditioner or
• Buying an energy-efficient AC and electric furnace

Living in a hard-winter climatemay incentivize you to keep your furnace as a backup to use on the coldest days of the year while letting your electricity-powered heat pump do the heavy lifting.

Related Topic:Repair or Replace My AC – What's the Best Option Financially?

Let Aire Serv Help You Make the Right Choice

If your HVAC system is not working properly or efficiently, call your local Aire Serv professional to learn more about a furnace replacement or air conditioner replacement. Our experienced team of service professionals can evaluate and test your HVAC system to determine the best replacement options, including the right air-source heat pump to replace both units at once.

To learn more, give us a call today, or request an appointment online to ensure your home stays comfortable now and for years to come.