hvac repair san diego
12 Feb 2024
How Long Do HVAC Systems Last? It All Depends…You Know?
If we could all get our way, we’d want everything mechanical or electronic we ever need for our homes to be bought once and last forever. And, we’d want them to be energy efficient, maintenance-free, and maybe even 100% recyclable! I’m just sayin…
Seriously now, your customers will ask the question about how long an HVAC system is supposed to last. How do I know? Because Mr.Google reports on commonly asked HVAC questions, and people definitely want to know what to expect from their current system, whether it is repairable (or even makes sense to repair it). Two likely answers: 1. It won’t last as long as you hoped; 2. And yes, it will probably cost more than you want.
But people don’t ask those questions only about HVAC systems, they ask those questions about everything. And in a time of inflation and economic uncertainty, everything from washing machines to window replacement, from Teslas to Televisions will have those questions asked about them.
The questions are coming, so be prepared to answer them intelligently and with a smile. You’re just there to help and to offer suggestions, but the price of everything is going up, not just HVAC.
However, you can let them know—as it says in the title of this blog—that is DOES DEPEND upon some factors. Things they should know which will help them to make decisions for now and in the future. These are the variables. The “Depends”.
Practical Answers About HVAC System Life
According to everybody’s favorite TV handyman, Bob Vila, expect 15 to 25 years for a residential HVAC system to last. Quite a spread, isn’t it? It is, but then again, we did say that the lifespan ‘depends’ on things. The variables. So let’s take a look at these.
Variables—and in No Particular Order
- The original quality and build of the older system. It could be that the failing system was not top quality. “You get what you pay for” is more than just a saying.
- Was the system properly-sized to the house? If the unit was too small to begin with, an early breakdown is not unusual.
- Preventive maintenance—was there anything like a filter-replacement program or regular inspections and adjustments?
- Geographic location. Even in California, location (environment) does affect useful life of the equipment.
- State Politics. Here in California expect to be limited on the type of system you will be allowed to install. Since the state is pushing hard for ‘electrification’, many cities already outlaw new gas appliances.
- International Politics. We got a taste (bitter taste?) of supply chain problems during Covid. What happens elsewhere in the world can definitely affect your ability to get new equipment and/or parts if it is manufactured offshore. That said, you might want to give extra thought to where your gear comes from.
- SUGGESTION: Maybe this is the year where you really try to push the “Made in the USA” label. It could actually be a selling point for you if you let your customers know that you buy American and you sell it too. Think about it!
See another Blog post of ours on HVAC business ideas. CLICK HERE>
Takeaway Teaching: Quality counts; integrity matters; history is important; sometimes there is a reason why something is cheapest!
Other Things You Should Be Doing Already
You are licensed by the State of California, carry at least the minimum amount of insurance. Realize that some hvac service providers are not state licensed contractors will also be calling on your customers. Make sure they know the difference. Your customer can check right here. Just enter the name of the ‘contractor’ in question. It’s simple, fast and private and your customer will know immediately if someone is properly licensed. Your customer can look up your company, too! State of CA License Lookup
Your service truck is sharp, has all the proper tools and carries most of the needed parts and supplies you need, so your job gets done today—not in ‘two days’
You are a member of some trade associations. ‘Handyman’ hvac companies aren’t.
You are listed in The HVAC – Heating & Air Conditioning Pros California State Directory The HVAC – Heating & Air Conditioning Pros California State Directory
Regardless of the system you choose, always choose a state of California licensed hvac contractor to properly and safely install your new or replacement system—or even to repair or service your existing system. Check the Pro List at The HVAC – Heating & Air Conditioning Pros California State Directory
https://www.airconditioninghvaccalifornia.com
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