Should I Replace My Air Conditioning and Furnace at the Same Time?

Similarly to other types of home systems, your air conditioning system may also develop a fault. Some of these faults can be fixed, while others will require a total replacement. When there’s a need for new air conditioning installing, some experts often suggest that the furnace should also be replaced alongside. On the other hand, some experts believe only the faulty system should be replaced. This cannot be very clear to many people. If you are one of such people, you’ve come to the right page. 

In this article, we will discuss when you should or should not change your air conditioning and furnace.

Understanding Furnaces And Air Conditioning Systems 

An HVAC system is made up of two components which are the air-conditioner and the furnace. These two components operate independently of each other, even though they both circulate air to your home through ducts and vents. The furnace circulates hot air while the air conditioner circulates cool air.

Generally, the furnace system has a longer life expectancy than the air conditioning system. It can last for up to 25-30 years, which is twice the life expectancy of the air conditioning system, which can last up to 10-15 years.

Is it Necessary to Replace My Air conditioner and Furnace at The Same Time?

Sometimes it may be necessary to replace both systems at the same time, but there are situations where it is totally unnecessary to replace both systems. 

So, when should you replace both systems?

When You Upgrade Your Air Conditioner 

Although the furnace and air conditioner are different systems, the HVAC system relies on the blower (fan) from the furnace to circulate air throughout your home. For better efficiency, the blower motor should be able to support the cooling output of your air conditioning system. So, if you decide to upgrade your air conditioner to a higher efficiency with a SEER rating above 16, then you may also need to upgrade your furnace to one with a more recent blower motor that can support the air conditioner. 

When Your Existing Hvac Equipment Isn’t The Right Capacity 

If your HVAC system is undersized or oversized, it simply means that the capacity is less than or bigger than what your home needs. For your HVAC system to function properly in heating or to cool your home, the furnace and the air conditioner must have the right capacity. So, you may need to change the entire system if it is overcapacity or under capacity. Not changing it would result in wear and tear of the system, reduce its performance, and may reduce the lifespan by at least 5-10 years. Alternatively, replacing the entire system would reduce your energy bills and also properly regulate your home’s temperature.

When You want to Save on Cost

Doing a lone replacement of your air conditioner system can cost between $4,300 – $12,000, while a lone replacement for your furnace can cost between $3,000 – $7,500. 

This includes the cost of the equipment, the service charge, and any other costs that may be incurred. By installing both at the same time, you can save cost from the labor charge. Some contractors also offer incentives when you replace both systems at once.

When You Shouldn’t Replace Your Air Conditioner and Furnace at The Same Time

If your furnace is new or less than ten years old and is still in a good condition, then you may not need to replace it alongside your air conditioner system. It’s best to wait for the next air conditioning replacement to replace both systems. This is because your furnace can outlast your air conditioner by 15 years.

Other reasons not to replace both systems are; 

• If you have just recently replaced your furnace

• If your existing furnace is compatible with your new or upgraded air conditioner

• If there are no technical faults with any of the systems

While your air conditioner needs the blower from your furnace to function, your furnace is a standalone system and can function without your air conditioner. Therefore, when you get a furnace replacement, you may not need an air conditioner replacement except if it is faulty. In fact, a new furnace can help to improve the performance of your old air conditioner.

Whether you choose to replace either your furnace or air conditioner or you choose to replace both, ensure that the two systems are compatible and can meet the needs of your home. For a long-term goal, go for an HVAC system that can provide high energy efficiency while still providing maximum comfort all year round.