HVAC Replacement: What to Consider Before Signing a Contract
You’ve already determined it’s time to replace your HVAC system. Don’t sign a contract for HVAC replacement before you read this.
By Anne Fonda
Whether your AC, heat pump, or furnace died, or you want to replace an older system that’s had so many repairs you’re afraid it will leave you in the lurch, you’ve started looking into HVAC replacement. If you read our homeowner’s guide to HVAC replacement, you may already know the type of system you want.
You’re smart to be doing your homework, and even smarter to be shopping around. Before you hire a company and sign their contract, make sure you do the following.
#1: Research the HVAC brand/manufacturer
Not all HVAC systems are equal. Your first instinct may be to just go with the brand of HVAC equipment you’re replacing. But should you? Maybe, maybe not. In our biased but expert opinion, you should choose the brand that has the best reliability, is trusted in the industry, and offers sustainable and energy-efficient HVAC equipment that exceeds your expectations.
Visit the various manufacturers’ websites and compare apples to apples. Compare:
- HVAC unit components and durability – read the product brochures for more detailed information.
- Unit efficiency – look for SEER2, EER2, HSPF2, and AFUE ratings. Make sure you understand the various HVAC efficiency metrics and their importance.
- Pricing – prices may or may not be listed on the websites. Prices will vary based on the type of system and the indoor and outdoor units and how they are paired.
#2: Determine the HVAC replacement cost
Much like you would expect to pay more for a more fuel-efficient car with a more powerful engine and nicer interior, you should expect to pay more for a premium HVAC brand vs a discount brand.
So, how much is a new HVAC system? Your new HVAC system cost will depend on the brand, the efficiency of the units, the unit capacity, and much more. The cost to replace an HVAC system can even depend on what part of the country you’re in and the local labor costs.
Replacing your HVAC system isn’t cheap. But remember, the upfront costs can be offset by tax credits, rebates, and long-term savings on your energy bills if you opt for a high-efficiency AC and furnace combo or an all-electric heat pump system.
View our Pricing Guide for an idea of the cost of a new Trane HVAC system. For exact new HVAC system prices, consult with your local Trane dealer. Be sure to ask about financing options.
#3: Research the warranty
Ask to see the warranty for the indoor and outdoor units or look it up on the manufacturer’s website. In most, but not all, states, either you or your dealer will need to register the warranty to get the extended benefits.
Longer warranties indicate that the manufacturer stands behind their equipment. For instance, Trane, which has a reputation for reliability – it is hard to stop a Trane, after all – has industry-leading warranties. Learn more about Trane Warranties.
#4: Choose the right HVAC contractor
Even if you have an HVAC company you’ve been working with to service your system or make repairs, you’d be wise to get at least 3 estimates when you’re replacing an entire system. Look for HVAC companies near you with good reviews who have been in business for at least 5 years.
When they visit your home, make sure the contractors don’t just eyeball the size of your home or automatically suggest replacing the units with the same size units. You want to make sure that they perform load calculations and run the numbers to ensure accurate HVAC sizing. An improperly sized system will cause headaches for years to come.
You also want to ensure the HVAC installation is done correctly. Learn more about how to choose the right HVAC contractor for the job.
#5: Ask about discounts on equipment, service contracts, or other extras
HVAC tax credits and heat pump rebates will be the same no matter who you hire, as long as you’re buying eligible equipment. Ask about manufacturer’s rebates, discounts on service contracts, or other extras, such as an app to control your HVAC system remotely.
For example, if you have a Trane smart thermostat, Trane has the Trane Home App which lets you control the system via your smartphone or voice assistant. You can also opt into Trane Diagnostics, which allows your Trane dealer to monitor your system remotely.
They receive notifications of system issues, sometimes before you even know there’s a problem. They can troubleshoot and sometimes fix the problem remotely. If they need an on-site visit, the HVAC technician will arrive with the right parts, right tools, and make quick work of the service call.
Work with the HVAC experts
If you’re ready to move forward with HVAC replacement, work with the experts for reliable and energy-efficient comfort solutions. Contact your local Trane dealer(s) today to get a quote on a replacement HVAC system.
Now is a great time to upgrade your system and your comfort while reducing your energy costs. There’s a reason 78% of homeowners with a Trane system would buy another Trane system when the time comes.
Anne Fonda, Content Writer
A Content Writer with Trane Technologies, Anne Fonda researches topics and writes for Trane® and associated residential HVAC brands. She works in collaboration with Trane Technologies subject matter experts, offering easy-to-understand, informative content on complex topics. Her goal is to help consumers make informed decisions on the products and services they need.
She has written for HVAC and other service provider websites for over 16 years. Before transitioning to web content writing, Anne had a 14-year stint as an award-winning journalist. She graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.
When she’s not working, Anne enjoys playing word games, reading, gardening, spending time with family, and visiting gardens and museums.
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