If your outdoor HVAC unit seems like it’s on its last leg, then it’s best to go ahead and replace both the indoor unit and the outdoor heat pump or air conditioning unit at the same time. Unfortunately, this is a necessary evil. The indoor air handler and the outdoor unit work together in a different way than most of your appliances.
Here’s why you should replace both systems at once:
Matching Systems Work Better Together
Since there aren’t standard models for either system, it’s best to find an outdoor AC unit and interior air conditioner that are designed to work together. When in sync, the system works in tandem to create optimal efficiency.
Replacing one without the other will work, but both units will essentially be jeopardized, which could cost more money in the long run. Additionally, the efficiency rating, or full potential of the unit, only applies to matched systems.
The Technology Has Changed Since Your Last Upgrade
If it has been twenty years since your last upgrade, within the residential HVAC tech world the updates will be drastic. For the same reason that an old VCR doesn’t connect properly with a new flat screen, it’s important to upgrade both interior and exterior units at the same time.
Upgrades, such as debris filtering, air handling performance, noise reduction, and general workflow, have changed a great deal over the years. Replacing both indoor and outdoor units ensure that your total system is running off top-rate technology.
New Units Also Mean New Warranties
With new HVAC equipment, homeowners also receive an updated warranty for the product. This guarantees the replacement of the equipment and any servicing of that equipment. If you only replace the outdoor unit, the indoor unit’s warranty will likely expire before the new system’s warranty expires.
Some manufacturers will not extend full warranty coverage on the outdoor system if the indoor system is not a matching piece of equipment. Replacing both systems at once is the only way to ensure both will also be covered by the warranty.
It may sound like the cheaper option would be to only replace the exterior unit, but this will cost homeowners much more money over time. A matched system runs more efficiently, performs optimally, lasts longer, and will save you money on monthly energy bills.
How To Prepare For A Heat Pump Or Exterior AC Installation
Once you have decided to go ahead and replace your exterior heat pump or air conditioning unit, there are a few steps you should follow for a successful installation of the new system.
First, make sure the heat pump is installed at an elevated position far from the ground. This will help maintain the system during periods of inclement weather. This is a must, especially when the snow melts and drainage becomes a problem.
Next, make sure the base of the unit is made of stone or concrete. This will help keep the coils clean from excess debris like dirt and grass from the mower. It’ll also help keep the tech’s feet clean when servicing the unit.
Beyond the elevation and concrete slab, make sure the unit isn’t going to be too crowded by shrubbery or other landscaping. However, some shrubs are okay as long as there is room for the unit to breathe.
Finally, make sure the unit is at least 18 inches away from the wall so that performance isn’t an issue and that an HVAC specialist is able to service the unit easily. The disconnect box should be within 6 inches of the unit, but not directly behind it.
It’s easy to see when either your interior or exterior air conditioning unit is always best to replace both. This will guarantee they both work as efficiently as possible which will save you cash and mean you’ll have a new warranty in case anything does happen to go wrong. But don’t forget to follow the advice above to make sure your new units are installed properly.
Author Bio: Dan Kalman is the Senior Vice President of Home Services for Lee Company, an air conditioning repair company in Nashville, TN. The business is dedicated to solving common house problems through innovative, customer-specific solutions.
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