Should You Replace or Retrofit Your HVAC in Portland?

At Hybrid Heating & Cooling, we field many homeowner questions about retrofitting versus replacing HVAC systems. Our customers ask which heating and cooling strategy is better and how they differ.

We think those questions are well worth exploring.

Although the difference between replacement and retrofitting is straightforward, knowing which is better depends on the system’s age and condition, your budget, and long-term comfort and energy efficiency goals.

Let’s take a closer look at both options to help you determine what might be best for your Portland, home.

What Is HVAC Retrofitting?

Retrofitting is upgrading or modifying HVAC components to improve performance, energy efficiency, or functionality. The upgrade is targeted rather than a complete system overhaul. It is like giving your heating and cooling unit a makeover to refresh its capabilities and extend its lifespan.

HVAC Retrofitting Advantages

If your HVAC system delivers a mediocre performance but is newer, retrofitting may be your best option. Retrofitting offers several advantages:

• Less Expensive: Retrofitting costs less than a complete system replacement because you only pay for specific upgrades. You get a quicker return on your investment through energy savings and reduced utility bills. Retrofitting can be a cost-effective HVAC solution.

• System Lifespan: Retrofitting can restore energy efficiency and performance to an aging system that still functions. It breathes new life into your unit, postponing the need for a full replacement.

• Replace Strategically: Retrofitting enables you to target problems, such as poor air quality or uneven heating, by replacing only the components needed to remedy the issues. You avoid overhauling the entire system, including components that work well.

• Less Disruptive: You likely will experience less disruption and downtime with a retrofit than a replacement.

What is HVAC Replacement?

HVAC system replacement involves removing your existing furnace or heat pump, air conditioner, and sometimes ductwork, and installing a new system.

HVAC Replacement Advantages

You will invest more money upfront in a complete HVAC system replacement, but will gain long-term benefits, especially if you replace an older or poorly performing system.

• Energy Efficiency: The newest HVAC systems have the latest advancements for improved energy efficiency. You likely will net bigger energy savings on monthly utility bills.

• Improved Performance: A new system provides optimal heating, cooling, and humidity control throughout your home. It delivers consistent temperatures and superior comfort that older systems may struggle to provide.

• Better Indoor Air Quality: New systems often have advanced filtration capabilities and can integrate seamlessly with sophisticated indoor air quality solutions, providing a healthier living environment.

• Fewer Repairs: You benefit from new warranties and significantly fewer repairs with a new HVAC system. You can expect reliability and peace of mind for years.

• Increased Home Value: A new, high-efficiency HVAC system can be a significant selling point and an attractive feature for potential buyers. It also may increase your home’s market value.

How to Retrofit Your HVAC Unit

There are many ways Portland homeowners can upgrade their existing heating and cooling systems. Here are a few ideas for HVAC optimization:

Smart Thermostat: This is one of the easiest and most beneficial retrofits. Energy-saving thermostats learn your preferences, adjust temperatures based on occupancy, and provide detailed energy reports, drastically reducing wasted energy.

HVAC Zoning: Zone control systems enable you to independently heat or cool different areas of your home, resolving hot and cold spots. Ductwork dampers send conditioned air only where you need it, saving energy. To amplify savings, you can close dampers in rarely used rooms, such as guest rooms.

Variable-Speed Blower: Replacing a single-speed blower motor with a variable-speed one, which can adjust its speed to match your home’s heating and cooling needs. A variable-speed blower provides more consistent temperatures and better humidity control while using less energy.

Add Ventilation: Energy recovery ventilators (ERV) and heat recovery ventilators (HRV) bring fresh outdoor air into your home. By recovering the energy in stale air exhausted from your home, ventilators can condition the incoming fresh air, improving indoor air quality without sacrificing efficiency.

According to the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), an ERV can save energy and money by recapturing 40 to 80 percent of the energy in the exhausted air.

When to Retrofit or Replace HVAC

Making the right decision requires a careful assessment. If your air conditioning or heat pump is less than 10 years old, your furnace is less than 15 years old, and the system is reliable but has some outdated components, retrofitting may be your best option.

It is also an attractive solution for homeowners on a tight budget who want improved efficiency and comfort. Targeted upgrades, like zone controls, can address specific issues, such as hot and cold spots.

Consider replacing your system if it is nearing or past its typical lifespan, frequently needs repairs, and cannot keep your home comfortable regardless of the thermostat setting.

Install a new system if you cannot resolve indoor air quality issues with a filter upgrade. It will maximize energy efficiency, long-term savings, and cleaner indoor air.  It will also increase home resale value by five to seven percent, according to Angi.com.

Retrofit or Replace Your HVAC

The best way to make an informed decision about upgrading or replacing the HVAC system in your Portland, OR, home is by consulting with trusted HVAC professionals. At Hybrid Heating & Cooling, we can assess your current system, discuss your comfort goals, and give you options that best suit your heating and cooling needs. We can also discuss potential savings and return on investment for HVAC retrofitting and replacement. Call us at 503-357-5663 or request service online.