Heating and cooling are a big part of facility management, so when it comes time to replace your HVAC system, you need all the information to make the right decision for your building. While the investment certainly pays off over the long haul, it’s a hefty outlay, so it’s crucial that you consider everything carefully before taking that step.

Is replacement necessary?

How old is your current system? The predicted lifespan of a furnace is about 15 to 20 years and air conditioning units last about 10 to 12 years. If your equipment is significantly newer than these numbers, perhaps a repair can be conducted or there’s a warranty you can consult. In this case, it may be worth having an inspection done to confirm that replacement is in fact necessary.

If you’ve ascertained that you do need to replace your unit, there are several factors to consider before making your choice.

What do you need?

Are you sure that the system you have is right for your building? Rather than going back with the existing system, take the time to assess your building’s needs. If you’ve had issues heating or cooling spaces in the past, this may be a sign that your unit is too small for your needs and a larger one might serve you better.

There are a few other changes you may decide to make to help you save money in the long run:

• Upgrading to a high-efficiency model can reduce your heating and cooling bills and lessen your impact on the environment.
• Do your homework, checking whether things like dual pumps, variable speed fans (and more) make sense for your building.
• Adding smart technology to your system may also be something to consider, so you can use data to allocate your resources better.

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Protecting your investment

Once you’ve made the investment in a new system, it’s important to put a plan in place to keep it in good working order and extend the life of that investment. Things like changing the air filters seasonally, and scheduling regular assessments and maintenance will help ensure that your system performs at its best for as long as possible.