When Should You Replace Your HVAC System?
The Big Question
One of the most common questions we hear from San Antonio homeowners is: “Should I repair my current system or replace it?” It’s a significant decision, and the answer depends on several factors.
Key Signs It’s Time to Replace
Consider replacement if any of these apply to your system:
- Age: Your system is 10 to 15 years old or older
- Frequent repairs: You’re calling for service multiple times per year
- Rising energy bills: Costs keep climbing despite regular maintenance
- Repair costs: The next repair exceeds 50% of a new system’s price
- Comfort issues: Your system struggles to maintain even temperatures during San Antonio’s extreme heat
- R-22 refrigerant: Your system uses R-22 (Freon), which is no longer manufactured and increasingly expensive
Sizing Your New System
For a typical 2,000 square foot San Antonio home:
- Cooling capacity: 2.5 to 5 tons, depending on insulation, windows, and sun exposure
- Heating capacity: 50,000 to 80,000 BTUs
Getting the size right is critical. An undersized system will run constantly and never reach your desired temperature. An oversized system will cycle on and off too frequently, wasting energy and failing to remove humidity properly.
Professional load calculations are essential — don’t let anyone size your system based on square footage alone. Factors like insulation quality, number of windows, ceiling height, and home orientation all matter.
What to Expect from a New System
Modern HVAC systems offer significant improvements over equipment from even 10 years ago:
- Higher SEER ratings that translate to lower energy bills
- Better humidity control for San Antonio’s climate
- Quieter operation with variable-speed technology
- Smart thermostat compatibility for remote control and scheduling
- Improved air filtration options for better indoor air quality
Our Approach
When you call us for a replacement consultation, we’ll never pressure you into a purchase. We’ll inspect your current system, run proper load calculations for your home, and give you an honest recommendation. If repair makes more sense, we’ll tell you.
Once your new system is installed, regular maintenance is the key to getting the most out of your investment.
Ready to find out if it’s time for a new system? Contact us for a free evaluation or learn more about our HVAC installation services.
Written by Chris Brehm
Chris is the founder and lead technician at Infinity Heat and Air. With years of hands-on HVAC experience, he writes practical guides to help San Antonio homeowners stay comfortable and make informed decisions about their heating and cooling systems.