HVAC unit 22 years old...what do i need to consider?
Question:I have a 22 year old Reem unit and 1800 sq ft house. The blower went last year at 600 bucks and now the condensor isnt working. I think I need to replace the whole thing. Since models and prices seem to vary widely I have no clue on cost, or what to consider in replacement vs. repair? Is there some kind of consumer reports type of review for these systems?
Answers:
HVAC units used to last longer than the ones made today do. What I would do is get information on all brands and compare their efficiency and their energy usage. Also, I would check the warranty on them, because there are some companies that warranty their HVAC units (compressors and forced air furnaces) for a full 10 year period, PARTS AND LABOR. I find this particular thing to be invaluable. After you decide which unit you think you want and you have checked them all out by looking at Consumer Reports, THEN I would contact friends and neighbors whom you trust their judgment and ask them if they can recommend a heating and a/c contractor. THEN, get several contractors who install the brand you've decided on to come and give you an estimate. I found that many times there is a huge difference in price for the same exact unit depending on who you get to install it. The most important thing is to remember the 10 year parts and labor warranty. From past experience and presently, the 10 year warranty pays for itself AND tells ME that if a company is giving that kind of warranty, they have faith in their product and for good reason. Good luck!
I don't know if there are reports that you can look at but I can tell you that the older AC units are designed to run for twenty years, anything after that is a gift. In other words even if you repair the condenser there will most likely be another problem with it in the very near future, electrical components, cooling coils, evaporator coils etc. My humble opinion is the unit needs to be replaced just because of the age of it. As far as other considerations shop around, I know its a pain in the backside but if you have at least two or three companies come in to see what size unit you need and give you quotes for prices (make sure it includes installation) you can figure out pretty easy who has the best system and warranty for the best price. Hope this helps>
Check out the consumer reports magazine web site. You are probably using way too much electricity to run this old of a unit anyway.
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