1. They ask you how old your unit is when calling for an appointment or if you have home warranty.

   This seems like a straightforward question at first glance. However, companies will ask you this so they know what level of sales tech to send out—as opposed to a regular service technician. If you have an older unit, some unethical (and locally well-known) companies know that with persuasion they can convince you to overspend on a new unit. They take advantage of the situation and your inexperience in the trade. 

2. Their technicians get paid commission. 

   If a technician gets paid commission, this should be a huge red flag! A commission-based technician makes money by upselling products and services to residents. This only benefits their own wallet; not the customer. 

   If this kind of “sales” technician gives you a consultation, they may start to identify false or unnecessary findings—because they personally profit from the amount of services sold to you. 

   It’s perfectly acceptable to ask their company if they operate from a commission-based model. A lot of big, local, award-winning HVAC companies have moved to this sales model to grow—at the expense of hardworking residents. 

   Viking Heating & Air Conditioning works at an hourly rate for basic services: the way it should be.

3. They tell you the “prices of new units are only going up” to try and sell you a new unit.

   Putting pressure on customers to buy new units using the “climbing HVAC unit costs” excuse is oftentimes a directive from managers. Sadly, this sales tactic isn’t uncommon in the HVAC industry. 

   The truth is: while units may go up in price incrementally over time, the “rising” cost alone should never be the reason you purchase a new unit. Just like cars, the price of a unit fluctuates with the market. 

   Saving money in the long run comes down to taking care of your current unit with maintenance at each changing season, regular servicing, and changing the filters—so you can buy a unit on your own time, when YOU are ready to make the investment—not when someone pressures you to.

4. They offer cheap system maintenance specials. 

   During these promotions, big HVAC companies will oftentimes send trained “technicians” (aka Salesmen) for maintenance. These sales-trained employees are just looking for ways to get their foot in the door to upsell and get new business. Trust should be earned with quality work over time—not bought with a special.

5. They show you a repair cost that is higher than just purchasing a new unit.

   Inflating the costs of repairs and telling you that you will need “immediate” or “in the near future” repairs—that will cost more than a new unit—should be your cue to get a second opinion from Viking Heating and Air Conditioning.

   While replacing a unit may be inevitable for your residential and commercial property, the cost to replace a new unit will almost always be higher than a repair. However, when it’s time—it’s time. And you definitely don’t want to throw good money away on repairs when a new unit will actually save you money in the long run. 

   Our goal is transparency. We show you what to expect from your unit for its age, how to determine when it’s ready to replace your furnace or HVAC unit, and give you the insight to make purchasing decisions based on your family’s needs.  

   If you’ve experienced any of these red flags, give me a call to discuss next steps or to compare HVAC inspections.
   

There are many factors when it comes to heating and air conditioning repair versus replacement. The average lifespan can be anywhere from 15 to 25 years depending on how well it’s taken care of, how often it’s serviced, and how much work it’s putting in.

If you suspect your unit is on its way out because it’s making noises, it’s not heating or cooling, or your utility bills are showing unusually high costs, it’s definitely time to call us to see if we can prolong its lifespan or if it’s time to plan for a new unit. 

Here are some other indications that your HVAC unit is on its way out:

1. Age. Just like us, age will finally catch up. Older units will eventually become less efficient and more susceptible to breakdowns.

2. Frequent breakdowns. If you keep having continuous problems, your unit could be telling you that it’s on life support.

3. Uneven Cooling. If you notice inconsistent cooling throughout your house, your AC unit may be struggling to circulate air properly. This could have implications for a replacement.

4. Strange noises and smells. Loud and unusual noises like grinding, squealing, or knocking indicate that something is wrong. Also, strange smells can indicate electrical problems.

5. Refrigerant leaks: ice build ups are an obvious sign that there may be a leak. This would also accompany performance problems that would disrupt your comfort.

6. Damage you can see. Rust or corrosion can be signs that something is wrong. The longer these damages are exposed, the more expensive and extensive the repairs can be.

Sometimes, replacing your AC in the Central Valley may be the only option—and if you're ready to break up with your air conditioning: just tell it you’re sick of the hot and cold relationship. – Jason

Simply put, system replacements can vary on installation cost. The obvious cost differences will come down to different brands and size of the unit. The less obvious costs to consider are:

• Local code requirements

• Overall efficiencies

• Supply chain issues

• Demand

• Operating costs

• And suppliers changing prices annually

Depending on what needs to be changed or updated to meet the new system and local code requirements, you could incur a few other unexpected costs. 

But the most important thing to remember when you’re shopping for a new air conditioning and heating unit—and trying to pick the best HVAC installer—is: It’s okay to shop around.

If you are quoted anything above 15k, get other estimates. They are usually free and you need to do what works for your budget and timeframe.