Replacing Just the AC or the Whole HVAC System: What’s the Right Move?

When a cooling system fails, homeowners are left with a difficult decision: should they choose only an air conditioning replacement, or should they invest in a complete system overhaul? Understanding the differences between these options and the pros and cons of each will help you make the most cost-effective choice. 

Difference Between Replacing Your AC vs. Your HVAC System

Know Your System

Before making any decisions, you need to know what components make up your home's heating and cooling system. A typical HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system includes:

• An air conditioner or heat pump air conditioner for cooling
• A furnace or heat pump for heating
• Ductwork for air distribution
• Thermostat and controls

When a problem occurs, determining whether you should replace a single component or the complete HVAC system depends on a few factors. The age of the system, the efficiency it's operating at, and the compatibility of parts all play a role. 

Replacing the AC vs. the HVAC System

When Is It Best to Replace the AC Only

You may be able to get away with only an air conditioning replacement if:

• Your heating system is relatively new (less than 10 years old)
• The furnace is in good working condition
• Your current ductwork is in good shape and properly sized
• You're happy with your current heating performance

For homeowners who wonder when to replace heating and air conditioning components separately, the answer is often all about timing and performance. If your AC unit has failed, but your furnace is working well, it's likely more economical to replace only the cooling component. 

When Is a Whole HVAC System Replacement Necessary

On the other hand, a complete AC system and furnace replacement might be necessary when:

• Both systems are aging (15+ years old)
• You're frequently making repairs on both components
• Your energy bills have been increasing
• The current system isn't performing as well as you'd like

In these instances, it's likely you should replace the furnace and AC at the same time. Replacing them with matched components in one installation can save money over replacing them separately, but close together. 

Cost Comparison

Comparing the costs of replacing only the AC with replacing the whole HVAC system comes down to two factors: initial costs and long-term costs. Let's start with the initial costs:

• Air condition only: $4,000-$8,000
• Complete HVAC system: $8,000-$15,000

The upfront cost is quite a bit higher for a complete system than for just the AC. The difference comes in the long-term costs. Multiple installation charges immediately make upgrading separately more expensive. Other, less obvious factors include the benefit of coordinated warranties and the cost savings from improved efficiency.

Key Considerations for an HVAC System Replacement

To help you decide when to replace heating and air conditioning systems, consider:

• System age: Most HVAC systems last 15-20 years before efficiency declines
• Energy efficiency: Newer systems can save 20-40% on energy costs
• Compatibility: Modern AC units work best with matched components
• Seasonal timing: It's cheaper to replace units in off-peak seasons

Replacing both systems at the same time guarantees you'll have optimal compatibility, maximum efficiency, and warranty periods that line up. Often, homeowners replace a new AC and find out a year or two later that the furnace needs replacing. Carefully consider the condition of the heating system before deciding to hold off on replacing it. 

Contact AVU Heating & Air Today

The right decision between an air conditioning replacement or a complete HVAC system upgrade is aided greatly by a professional assessment. Our technicians can thoroughly evaluate your current system's condition and help you understand what the best option is and why. 

Don't wait for a system failure during extreme weather. Contact AVU Heating & Air for a thorough evaluation and recommendation on when to replace your heating and air conditioning.

Featured Image: Pamela Brick / Shutterstock