Just like everything else in life heating and cooling systems are only designed to last a certain amount of time. Usually, the longest lifespan you will see in an HVAC system in Denver Colorado is 20 years, and that is pushing it to the limit. If you system is 10 years or older it is probably a good ideal to have it assessed by a trained professional and see if it is costing you more money than it is worth. While, replacing your system is a major expense they really can save your some money in the long run.
Understanding The Different Brands
While there are several different brands of units most heating and cooling contractors will only deal with certain brands. You will not find one heating and cooling contractor that is going to offer every brand of unit available. Maybe you are pleased with your current brand, because it has been very dependable, or maybe you want to try something new. Whatever the case is, the first thing you want to do is a find several different contractors located in your area.
You can start by speaking with friends, family, or neighbors. Ask them if they have had anyone replace or repair their system recently. If that fails you can always to the Internet. All you have to do is access a search engine and do a search for local heating and cooling contractors in your area.
Performing A Load Analysis On The Home
Never make any assumptions when replacing your unit. Always make sure that the salesman does a load analysis on your home to the size the unit. This is a process basically calculates the amount of BTUs that it will take to heat and cool your home in combination with your insulation, windows, doors, and the size of your home. Just because your old unit seemed to be doing its job just fine does not mean that it was sized properly.
Perhaps, you have added more insulation or added on an extra room in the past. This means that your home now requires more BTUs to heat and cool properly.
Checking For Duct Leaks
Your heating and cooling system is only half of the equation. You also have to consider the ductwork. If your ductwork is leaky, replacing your system isn’t going to save you any more at all. Ask each of the HVAC contractors in Denver Colorado if they are going to perform a duct leak test before installing the unit. Depending on how bad your duct is leaking they might even waive the cost of sealing your ducts just because you are buying a new system with them. If not you are only going to save yourself money in the long run.
Always Gets A Maintenance Contract
Anytime you buy a new system you are going to get a 10-year warranty on parts. Any good contractor will tell you that the warranty will be voided if you don’t have your system cleaned, maintained, and evaluated by a trained professional at least once a year. Always make sure you get a maintenance contract even if it isn’t with the company that installs the unit. Although, the company that install the unit will a much better understand of your home and it’s requirements.