- HEP Heat and Air
- Aging Furnace

Aging Furnace
Aging Furnace | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Alcoa
When your aging furnace or air conditioner sputters through another Tennessee season, comfort and efficiency slip away with every cycle. Alcoa homeowners trust HEP’s licensed experts for dependable HVAC unit replacement that trades yesterday’s energy hogs for today’s high-efficiency systems, perfectly sized to your home and tuned to our local climate. From the first in-home evaluation to the final thermostat calibration, we keep the process clear, courteous, and pressure-free.
We pull permits, offer flexible financing, and haul away the old equipment—all on a schedule that respects yours. Backed by industry-leading warranties and HEP’s 24/7 emergency support, your new setup delivers lower utility bills, whisper-quiet operation, and year-round peace of mind. Call or click now to schedule your free estimate and feel the difference a professional HVAC unit replacement can make.
FAQs
How can I tell whether my aging furnace or air conditioner really needs to be replaced instead of repaired?
Most equipment begins to lose efficiency and reliability after 12–15 years. Warning signs include steadily rising utility bills, uneven temperatures from room to room, frequent cycling on/off, loud or unusual noises, visible rust or cracks in the heat-exchanger, and the need for more than two repairs in the last two heating or cooling seasons. If the repair estimate is more than 25–30 % of the cost of a new, high-efficiency system, replacement is usually the smarter long-term investment—especially in Alcoa’s mixed-humid climate where heating and cooling run almost year-round.
What size HVAC system does my Alcoa home need?
Sizing is based on a Manual J load calculation that factors in square footage, insulation levels, window type and orientation, air leakage, the number of occupants, and even shade from nearby trees. Because Alcoa experiences both hot, humid summers and chilly winters, an undersized unit will short-cycle in winter and struggle to remove summer humidity, while an oversized unit will waste energy and wear out faster. During your estimate we measure your home and run the calculation on software approved by the Tennessee State Mechanical Code to select the right BTU and SEER2/HSPF2 ratings.
Are there energy-efficiency rebates or tax incentives available for HVAC replacements in Alcoa, TN?
Yes. Through 2024 the federal Inflation Reduction Act offers a tax credit of up to 30 % of project cost (maximum $2,000) for qualifying high-efficiency heat pumps, furnaces rated ≥97 % AFUE, and advanced air-handler upgrades. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) also offers rebates—currently $200–$400—when you install a heat pump that meets their Efficiency Program standards and the work is done by a Quality Contractor Network member. We handle all paperwork and provide the AHRI certificate you need to claim the incentives.
How long does a furnace or full HVAC replacement usually take?
A straight furnace swap can often be completed in 4–6 hours. Replacing both the furnace and the outdoor condenser/heat pump generally takes one full work-day (8–10 hours). If new duct runs, return air modifications, or an electrical upgrade are required, the job may extend to a second day. We schedule inspections with the City of Alcoa Building & Codes Department in advance so there are no delays after installation.
What is the typical cost to replace an aging HVAC system in Alcoa?
Costs vary with size, efficiency level, and any duct or electrical improvements. As of 2024, homeowners in Blount County can expect the following ballpark ranges (installed, including permit and haul-away): • High-efficiency gas furnace only: $3,800 –$6,200 • 14–16 SEER2 air-conditioner & coil: $4,500–$7,200 • Dual fuel or inverter heat-pump system: $7,500–$12,000 These prices factor in local labor rates, code-required safety shut-offs, and a 10-year parts warranty. We provide firm, written quotes after the in-home assessment and offer financing plans starting at 0 % APR for 12 months.
How should I prepare my home for installation day?
1) Clear a 3-foot path from the driveway to the furnace closet, attic stairs, or basement door. 2) Secure pets and inform us about alarm systems or special parking instructions. 3) Remove breakables from walls near the work area; vibration can knock them loose. 4) If we’re replacing an outdoor condenser, please trim back shrubs to allow at least 2 feet of clearance. 5) Plan to keep the thermostat off during the install; we’ll test and commission the new system before we leave. Our crew uses drop cloths, shoe covers, and a HEPA vacuum to leave your home as clean as we found it.