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The lifespan of an HVAC system depends on various factors, including the type of system, how often it is maintained, and how well it is taken care of. According to ASHRAE, the median life span of HVAC equipment is as follows:
Heat Pumps and Air conditioners - 15 yrs
Ductwork - 30 yrs
Insulation on duct - 20 - 24 yrs
Gas Furnaces - 18 yrs
We recommend replacing air filters every 3 months.
However, air filters located near the floor may need to be changed monthly, especially in high traffic areas.
Dirty filters can cause major issues, like fan motor failures and the freezing of indoor coils.
Filters are rated by their Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value or "MERV" rating, which measures the effectiveness of the filter.
Avoid fiberglass filters unless a whole-house filter is present.
We recommend a MERV-8 extended pleat to keep your indoor coil clean and will also help keep condensate drains cleaner.
SEER stands for "Seasonal Energy Efficiently Ratio" and is how well a system can cool. This rating only applies to cooling efficiency.
Heat pump heating is rated by HSPF which stands for "Heating Seasonal Performance Factor".
A good HSPF is 7.8 and up. The higher the HSPF, the better the heat pump can absorb heat from the outside air and reduces how often the auxiliary heat is used.
Cost will depend on the size (tonnage) and efficiency (SEER) of the system. A complete replacement of a standard 14.3 SEER system may be around $7-$8k. Where as a 18 - 20 SEER system may cost as high as $16,000.
Things to consider when purchasing are: How long will you own the home, does the home have an open interior, are there hot and cold spots between rooms, and is the indoor humidity high?
Two times per year is ideal for most systems. Once before or during the heating season, and once before or during the cooling season.
At a minimum, once per year is recommended (ideally before the heating or cooling season begins).
During the service, a technician should check refrigerant levels, test controls, clean coils, inspect ductwork, clear condensate drains, and verify system performance.
A multi-stage HVAC system is generally better than a single-stage system because it can adjust how hard it works instead of just turning fully on or off. That leads to better comfort, efficiency, and system longevity.
Here’s what’s actually going on:
1. More Consistent Temperature
A single-stage system blasts at 100% power until it hits the set temperature, then shuts off. That creates noticeable swings—too warm, then too cool.
A multi-stage system (like 2-stage or variable-speed) runs at a lower level most of the time and only ramps up when needed. The result is a steadier, more even indoor temperature.
2. Better Energy Efficiency
Running at lower speeds uses less energy than constantly cycling on and off at full power.
Multi-stage systems also avoid the energy spikes that happen every time a single-stage unit starts up. Over time, that usually means lower utility bills.
3. Humidity Control
This is a big deal in places like North Carolina.
Because a multi-stage system runs longer at lower speeds, it removes more moisture from the air. That makes your home feel cooler and less sticky—even at slightly higher thermostat settings.
4. Quieter Operation
Lower-speed operation is much quieter than a full-power blast. Most of the time, you’ll barely notice it running.
5. Less Wear & Tear
Instead of constantly turning on and off (which is hard on components), multi-stage systems run more smoothly. That can extend the lifespan of parts like the compressor.