Your air conditioner keeps you cool all summer long, while your furnace keeps you warm and toasty through our freezing winters. Together, they create the ultimate home comfort system. What happens when one begins to take a turn for the worse? Is it cheaper to replace the AC and furnace together?
As the leading Air Conditioning service providers in Winnipeg, we can say that it’s a bigger upfront investment. However, it saves you money in the long run. It’s time to find out why!
Average Lifespans of AC Units and Furnaces
Air conditioners and furnaces slightly differ when it comes to how long they last. Here’s a basic overview:
- Air Conditioners: Generally, air conditioners last 12-15 years. However, they can last up to 20 years with regular maintenance.
- Furnaces: Depending on whether you have a gas, electric, or high-efficiency furnace and how often you service it, a furnace will last 15-20 years.
Furnaces, with regular servicing, and air conditioners don’t wear out at the same time. That makes homeowners hesitant to replace both at once or consider furnace repair and repairing air conditioning in Winnipeg. That’s what sparks the debate.
Benefits of Replacing AC and Furnace at the Same Time
If a system is working, why replace it? Well, upgrading both systems at the same time offers the following advantages:
- Reduced Installation Costs: When both systems are installed in the same appointment, you can save on labor costs. Many HVAC companies charge less for one job than two jobs months or years apart.
- Better Efficiency: AC and furnace systems are like bread and butter. When you install a matched pair, they operate more efficiently, lowering your energy bills and improving your overall comfort.
- Warranty Alignment: When both systems are under the same warranty timeline, it simplifies service and repairs. That’s because it’s easier to keep track of your coverage if they are installed at the same time.
- Less Future Hassle: Replacing both means you won’t face another installation just a couple of years later when the other system fails.
- Improved Comfort: New, matching systems will heat and cool your home more efficiently. That means there will be fewer hot and cold spots as well as quieter operation.
Despite the higher upfront costs, replacing both systems at the same time makes sense in most situations. We will discuss when to do this next.
When It Makes Sense to Replace Both
Replacing your air conditioner and furnace at the same time makes sense in certain situations. Consider it in the following situations:
- Both systems are over 10 years old and are starting to wear out
- Frequent repairs in recent years
- Current systems are mismatched (i.e., new AC paired with an old furnace)
- You plan to stay in your home long-term
If you find yourself in any of these situations, consider this option. The long-term savings will outweigh the high upfront costs.
When to Replace Just One
Sometimes, it doesn’t make sense to replace both your AC and furnace. Instead, consider updating one at a time, like planning a furnace installation when your heating system is nearing the end of its lifespan, in the following situations:
- If a system is new and working efficiently
- If you plan to sell your home soon
- The budget for replacing both is not realistic right now
Keep in mind that two separate installs cost more in the long run. Additionally, mismatched systems are not as efficient.
Get Help From a Professional HVAC Service Provider in Winnipeg
Is it cheaper to replace your AC and furnace together? Yes, especially if both systems are nearing the end of their lifespans. However, every home is different. The team at Lynn’s Heating, Plumbing & Cooling can help you make the right decision. We can help you evaluate the age, condition, and efficiency of your current units to make the choice for your home.
Does your AC, furnace, or both need updating? Contact us today to schedule an inspection!
