HVAC, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, is a system composed of several components that work together to heat and cool your home. These components may include heating and air conditioning units, ducts, and a thermostat for control. Installing ducts requires removing parts of the walls, floors, and other areas of the house, and will add to the total cost of installing HVAC.For this reason, many people opt for a modern ductless HVAC system instead. When replacing an air conditioner, it is usually recommended to replace the ducts as well.
This is to ensure maximum efficiency and air quality. HVAC installers can perform tests to determine the degree of leakage in your home's ducts. If the cost of repairing the HVAC unit is 30 percent or more of the total cost of replacing it, then it is best to choose to replace the HVAC system. If your home does not have ducts, you can choose a ductless HVAC system or install ductwork. Some HVAC companies offer discounts on more expensive options such as a zone system.
Additionally, many local energy companies offer discounts or rebates for upgrading or replacing an HVAC system, especially if it is an energy-efficient option. The price of installation may increase if the HVAC unit is located in a historic home, a small attic, or an attic with built-in insulation. It may also increase if the HVAC unit requires custom-made parts. To maintain a new HVAC unit after it has been installed by a professional, homeowners should regularly replace air filters; seal any air leaks in the ducts; clean any debris surrounding the HVAC unit; maintain a 2-foot clear space around the unit; replace or adjust the thermostat; and clean the evaporator coil, evaporator trap, and drain pipe with a garden hose. Most HVAC replacements will require new ducts, so homeowners should check with their HVAC professional to see if they need to replace them.
