Should You Replace Your 20-Year-Old HVAC Unit?

How Efficient Is a 20-Year-Old HVAC Unit & When Will It Need To Be Replaced?

Since the average age range of an HVAC system is 15 to 25 years, you may wonder how efficient your 20-year-old system is and whether it’s time to consider a replacement. Most of these older systems utilize outdated technology, making them less efficient than more modern units. After 20 years of daily use, they are often unable to operate at peak performance. 

At Blanton’s, we work with Fayetteville and Raleigh homeowners to determine whether their HVAC is energy-efficient and suggest the best ways for them to save money on their heating and cooling. 

If your 20-year-old HVAC isn’t operating as well as it used to, contact Blanton’s for expert replacement services!

HVAC Age & Efficiency: A Guide

Older HVAC units tend to be less efficient than newer models, and as they age, wear and tear reduces their efficiency even more. As technology in the HVAC industry has improved, newer models have become more and more energy-efficient. This is often marked by their SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficient Ratio, rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system. The federal minimum for HVAC systems is 13 SEER, while systems made in the early 2000s typically had SEER rates closer to 10.

In addition to a lower SEER rating, older units that have spent years providing heating and cooling become less efficient as components age and don’t work as well. This means your system has to work harder to provide stable temperatures in your home, resulting in increased energy use.

Determining How Old Your System Is

If someone else installed your system, you can easily determine the age of your system with information found on the unit. Most HVAC systems have a brand nameplate that will often list the manufacture date. If you cannot find this, look for a unit serial number. By searching for this serial number, you can access information about the system, including its age, or call the manufacturer. 

If there’s no identifiable information on the unit, check any homeowner records provided during the sale. Often, you will be given paperwork that lists the date of installation, which is likely close to the age of the unit itself.

How Old Is Too Old? When To Replace HVAC System

Most 20-year-old HVAC systems are at the end of their lifespan, and if they are becoming increasingly more expensive to maintain and operate, it’s likely a good time to consider a replacement. We typically recommend a replacement when it’s a more cost-effective decision.

Older systems may require frequent and expensive repairs and will often cause your energy bill to skyrocket. While a replacement HVAC unit is a significant investment in your home, it may make more financial sense if it will save you money on repairs and utilities over time.

Contact a Professional for HVAC Replacement

If your North Carolina home is ready for HVAC replacement, trust the team at Blanton’s. With over 70 years in the industry, we’re proud to have a reputation for honesty and integrity and are committed to providing you with superior workmanship and exceptional customer experience.

Give the team at Blanton’s a call today to schedule HVAC replacement in Raleigh, Fayetteville, Garner, and the surrounding areas.