Furnace Replacement During the Winter

How to Prepare for a Furnace Replacement During Winter’s Coldest Months

The toughest time of year to replace an air conditioner is during July and August, doing without AC during the heat of the dog days of summer. Conversely, the toughest time of year for a furnace replacement is during January and February, when we experience the coldest nights of the year. Doing without an HVAC system during extreme temperatures is rather unpleasant, uncomfortable, and potentially unhealthy.

Fortunately, informed homeowners know that the average HVAC system lasts for 20 years, allowing them to plan a system replacement during mild-weather months. But sometimes things happen, and an HVAC system needs to be replaced during the worst possible time. If you face a winter Furnace Replacement, here are some things you can expect.

Anticipating the Age Problem

As an HVAC system ages, typical problems develop.

  • The average HVAC system in Texas will experience more than 500,000 heating and cooling cycles in 20 years. The sheer number of cycles creates wear.
  • Like most mechanical systems, micro-wear happens with each use. Replacing parts will prolong the system, but eventually, the wear takes out a component too large to simply replace.
  • The normal lifespan of HVAC systems is about 20 years; well-maintained systems will last a while longer.

Eventually, the system will need to be replaced.

Furnace Replacement Takes a While

  • The first step to HVAC replacement is a Manual J Load Calculation. This investigation examines the square footage, type of insulation, number of windows and doors, and other pertinent features. It determines the proper size of both heating and cooling units, a unique fit for your unique home.
  • Installation of a new system can take place quickly . . . if all the equipment needed for your unique system is readily available.

When the equipment and installers are both available, the installation can begin. Replacing the system may take one to three days, depending on the complexity of the system and the needed alterations.

  • The refrigerant (commonly called Freon) needs to be removed first.
  • The components will need to be dismantled and removed; this includes the indoor furnace cabinet and the outdoor compressor unit.
  • The old system will be replaced with new, energy-efficient components. When the system is completely installed, the system will be charged with the latest type of refrigerant available. The new system, both heating and cooling, will be tested to ensure the whole system performs as designed.

If everything falls into place, a replacement could take a few days. If components need to be collected, it could take a few weeks to gather and install the system. That is a long time to do without a heating system during the coldest weeks of the year. The key to avoiding the cold of an emergency furnace replacement is to know your system’s age and plan the replacement.

Call for Furnace Replacement at All Cool AC & Heating

With decades of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, All Cool AC & Heating will ensure your furnace replacement is completed as quickly as possible. If repair is no longer an option our furnace replacement technicians will design a furnace system to meet the needs of your home. Contact us at 281-238-9292 or contact us via email.