Most AC units and furnaces work well together, even from different manufacturers. Many units use the same setup or similar parts. Whether you have a manufacturer preference or don't want limitations on HVAC manufacturers to choose between, you can install a mismatched furnace and AC from two different brands.
Warranty Implications
Manufacturers may have specific warranty terms that require both the AC and furnace to be from the same brand. Mixing brands could potentially void warranties or complicate service agreements. Be sure to read the warranty details carefully.
While having a matching furnace and AC system is not mandatory, technicians highly recommend it. Aside from reduced efficiency and frequent repairs, a mismatched system could void your warranty.
The $5,000 rule is a rule of thumb in the HVAC industry to help homeowners decide whether HVAC repair or HVAC replacement makes more sense in the long run. The $5,000 rule: Multiply the age of your equipment by the estimated repair cost. If the number is more than $5,000, then you should consider replacing your unit.
It would be fine to mix and match brands, as they all work basically the same. However, the outdoor unit (condenser) and the indoor coil need to be the same tonnage. The company you have installing should be able to match that up for you and get you the right unit.
It is best to have all of your HVAC products match each other in size, because it can negatively affect overall operation to have mismatched units. However, an HVAC technician could likely make this pairing work.
In the worst circumstance, the incompatible system may not function at all. Or, it may seem to operate initially and then break down after some time. In all circumstances, the machine's efficiency and longevity will be compromised.
On average, you can only expect about 15 years of reliable service from a central AC system. And that's only if you maintain your system well. So, if your home has an AC that's 20 years old or older, it's likely living on borrowed time. Here are all the reasons to replace your home's 20-year-old air conditioner.
Usually, it is a quick fix, but sometimes the failure can be caused by a much bigger problem. The most expensive part of an AC unit to replace and repair is the air compressor.
The New Regulations
Starting January 1, 2025, all new residential air conditioners and heat pumps must utilize A2L refrigerants. Older refrigerants like R-410, which are likely the refrigerant used by your current system, are being phased out.
While it isn't mandatory to have matching furnace and AC units, poor compatibility can result in limited efficiency, increased wear, and voided warranties.
The cost to replace a furnace and air conditioning at once is $7,500 on average but could range from $2,500 to $15,000. If your air conditioner has quit, but the furnace still works (or vice versa), it's tempting to just replace the appliance that's broken.
The short answer is YES! The brand does matter when you purchase a new HVAC system for your home. However, as long as you purchase a top-tier brand, the differences between those brands are small.
Air conditioners and furnaces over 10 years old are generally what the HVAC industry would classify as “older.” This is also when most indoor and outdoor units stop being under warranty. If both your AC and furnace are more than 10 years old, we would recommend replacing them both at the same time.
Different refrigerants have different chemical compositions, which can make them incompatible with one another. Mixing different refrigerants can result in decreased performance of your air conditioner or other problems.
Does homeowners insurance cover air conditioner replacement? If your air conditioner is damaged or destroyed due to a covered peril, such as lightning or a windstorm, your homeowners insurance policy may pay to repair or replace the unit, up to your coverage limit and minus your homeowners insurance deductible.
It costs an average of $5,955 to install a new AC, but prices commonly range from $3,906 to $8,016, depending on the unit's size and type. A pro can provide an accurate quote based on your needs.
Geothermal heat pumps have the potential to be the most expensive HVAC option due to their initial higher installation costs, which are offset by long-term energy savings.
Replacing a 20-year-old gas furnace is typically a wise investment. In a country with diverse climates and heating needs, the benefits of a modern, energy-efficient furnace are manifold.
If your aircon is older than 10 years and plagued with ongoing issues, you might want to consider replacing your air conditioner. A benefit of replacing your aircon is that you will get a more energy efficient model which would ultimately save you a lot of money on power bills.
For example, the seer rating of 20-year old air conditioner systems is likely to be between 10 to 12 whereas a newer unit purchased this year would have an average SEER rating of 15 or more.
Air Conditioner SEER Ratings
The SEER rating for indoor and outdoor AC units should be the same to ensure maximum efficiency. Replacing the outside unit only will likely mean that you'll have a mismatched system and all of its associated problems.
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Keep it away from trees and dirty areas
Although shading is necessary, placing it near trees or driveway can attract leaves and dirt inside the unit. Water is a big no no as well so if there is an area where rain tends to pool, mount the unit in a elevated position.