If you are considering an air conditioning replacement, a furnace replacement, or both, chances are this is your first time navigating a project of this scale and you are not entirely sure what to expect. That is completely understandable. HVAC replacement is one of the more significant home improvement investments a property owner will make, and going into it informed makes the entire process smoother.
Working in homes throughout Warrendale, Cranberry Township, and the surrounding communities along the I-79 corridor, our team at Spurk HVAC has guided countless homeowners through this exact process. Whether you are dealing with an aging furnace that struggled through the last Pittsburgh winter or a cooling system that has simply reached the end of its service life, knowing what lies ahead helps you make better decisions from the start.
This guide covers everything you need to know before, during, and after your AC installation or replacement, including:
- Estimating your HVAC installation costs
- Deciding whether to replace or repair
- Basic HVAC terms to know
- Finding a qualified HVAC contractor
- The replacement and installation process
Estimate Your Cost
Before moving forward with any replacement, we strongly recommend obtaining at least three quotes from different companies. Upon arriving at your property, a qualified HVAC contractor will measure square footage and perform load calculations based on the size of your home and the condition of its envelope, meaning how effectively the structure contains conditioned air.
After completing the assessment, the contractor will recommend the appropriate size and type of system, along with any necessary repairs or modifications to your existing ductwork or building envelope. A knowledgeable contractor will also recommend equipment based on top-performing brands, your budget, and the energy efficiency ratings that make sense for your situation.
Schedule your free consultation with Spurk HVAC today. Our professional estimators will help you identify the best equipment for your home and provide a clear, detailed quote before any work begins.
Finding a Contractor
Start by building a list of licensed, insured, and bonded HVAC contractors in your area. Schedule an on-site visit with each one and allow them to take measurements and inspect your current system in person.
Never accept a quote over the phone or by email unless the contractor has physically visited your home. Every property has its own nuances, and HVAC replacements rarely follow a one-size-fits-all approach. A quote given without an in-person assessment is rarely accurate.
Ask each contractor for proof of a current HVAC license and insurance. Request the license number so you can verify it is active, and confirm that their insurance coverage is current. You may also ask about additional certifications, such as the industry-recognized NATE Technician Certification.
Make sure any written estimate you receive is dated, signed, and covers all aspects of the replacement project, including:
- Job start date and expected completion
- Each specific task listed individually
- The HVAC system being replaced
- Itemized pricing for each task
- Additional material costs
- Cleanup costs
- Removal of the old equipment
Take time to review the warranty coverage included with the installation, and read through the contractor’s reviews to understand what other customers have experienced.
Repair or Replace?
In many cases, when a customer is weighing their options, our recommendation is to replace the entire HVAC system at once. This approach, commonly referred to as a matched system, ensures that all components are designed to work together efficiently and carry consistent warranty coverage.
Based on what we see in Warrendale and North Hills area homes, systems with mismatched or aging components frequently run less efficiently, leading to higher operating costs and more frequent service calls over time. A matched system eliminates that concern from day one.
We touch on this in our article The Million Dollar Question.
Related: Is it time to repair or replace my air conditioner?
Basic HVAC Terms
You’ll want to know these terms before deciding on the best replacement HVAC unit for your home.
- HSPF – Heating Season Performance Factor: This rating determines the efficiency of a heat pump. The current standard that all new heat pumps must have is a minimum rating of 7.7.
- SEER – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio: This rating notes the efficiency of the cooling system. The current rating is set at a minimum of no less than 13 for all new systems.
It is worth noting that systems with higher HSPF and SEER ratings will cost more upfront. However, higher-efficiency equipment typically delivers a stronger return on investment through lower monthly energy bills over the life of the system.
Getting Ready for an HVAC Replacement
There are several steps homeowners can take before the installation crew arrives that help the project move efficiently. Move valuables such as antiques or irreplaceable items to a safe area away from the expected work zones. Most contractors prefer not to be responsible for moving high-value items during a job, as it creates liability concerns.
If you have pets, relocate them to a quiet, secure area away from the work areas for the duration of the project.
Length of the HVAC Replacement Installation
Once the estimate is finalized and you have selected a contractor and system, you are ready to move forward. Most standard HVAC replacements are completed within a single day, though more complex projects may require additional time. Upon arriving at your property, the installation crew will assess the job site and organize their work areas before beginning.
Setting Up the Work Area
The crew will begin by protecting all flooring in applicable work areas using drop cloths or protective paper. They will also identify any furniture or household items near the work zones that should be moved or covered. Larger items that cannot be relocated will be covered with plastic sheeting to protect against dust created during the installation process. Once all surfaces and belongings are protected, the crew will bring in their tools and begin the project.
Replacing Old HVAC Systems
Before installing your new air conditioner and furnace, the crew must first remove the old equipment. The crew will need to access attic areas, crawl spaces, and basements that typically house the system. After cutting the power to the HVAC unit, the crew will begin disassembling and removing the old equipment.
Duct Repair and Modification
Depending on the scope of the project, ductwork repair or modification may be part of the installation. In most cases, one or two crew members will handle this work while the lead installer begins assembling the new equipment. Spurk HVAC installers are equipped to fabricate minor ductwork pieces on-site as needed.
For projects involving more significant HVAC ductwork repair, crew members may need to navigate attic and crawl space areas to complete the necessary modifications. Extensive ductwork work can extend the overall timeline of the project, so it is helpful to account for that possibility when planning.
Installing the New HVAC System
Once ductwork concerns are addressed, the crew will install the new equipment according to manufacturer specifications. Depending on the system selected, components will be installed both inside and outside the home. These may include the interior air handler or evaporator coil, the exterior compressor or condensing unit, new refrigerant supply lines, the thermostat, condensate drain lines, and a condensate pump where applicable.
While most HVAC contractors are able to handle standard wiring upgrades and circuit breaker adjustments during a typical installation, significant changes to the property’s electrical system may require the involvement of a licensed electrician.
A note on unforeseen circumstances: As with many home improvement projects, unexpected repairs can occasionally arise once the project is underway. While our estimators are thorough and experienced at identifying potential issues during the assessment phase, there are situations that only become visible once work begins. Any concerns discovered during the estimating process will be communicated to you in advance.
Testing the New System
Upon completing the installation, pressure and vacuum tests are performed before the system is charged with new refrigerant. After a full inspection of the new equipment, refrigerant is added and the system is activated and retested to confirm all components are functioning correctly.
Once testing is complete, your installers will walk you through the proper operation of the new system, review warranty details, and answer any questions you may have. For most Spurk HVAC installations, a new thermostat is included and your installer will walk you through how to use it.
Please note that during colder weather periods, a follow-up visit may be needed for the air conditioning startup once outdoor temperatures are suitable for testing.
Keeping Your Home Comfortable Year-Round
Replacing your HVAC system is a significant investment, and understanding the process helps ensure the experience goes smoothly from start to finish. From selecting the right equipment to the final system test, every step matters. Having a qualified, experienced team handle the work protects that investment and gives you confidence in the results.
Spurk HVAC has been serving homeowners across Warrendale and the greater Pittsburgh region for over 20 years. Our licensed and insured installers treat every property with care, and we back all of our work with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
If you are ready to move forward with a replacement or simply want to explore your options, contact our team today to schedule your free replacement consultation.
ABOUT SPURK HVAC
Spurk HVAC was formed in 2018 and is located in Warrendale, Pennsylvania. We proudly serve Cranberry Twp., Wexford, Gibsonia, Mars, and the surrounding Greater Pittsburgh area.
We service all makes and models. If you are seeking a heating repair, heating system replacement, air conditioner repair, air conditioning maintenance, air conditioning replacement, or any other heating & cooling services. Whether you are looking for residential or commercial HVAC services, we look forward to any and all opportunities to become your preferred HVAC contractor.
