- HEP Heat and Air
- High-efficiency Unit

High-efficiency Unit
High-efficiency Unit | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning
When your old system struggles to keep up, HEP’s high-efficiency units step in with quieter operation, lower utility bills, and year-round comfort you can feel in every room. Our certified technicians analyze your home’s unique demands, remove outdated equipment, and install cutting-edge furnaces and air conditioners engineered for maximum SEER and AFUE ratings—often in a single day. Because we stock the most reliable brands and back every project with transparent pricing and rock-solid warranties, you’ll enjoy peace of mind along with perfectly balanced temperatures.
Choosing HEP for HVAC unit replacement means more than swapping metal boxes; it’s an upgrade to smarter controls, cleaner indoor air, and dependable performance during Tennessee’s hottest summers and chilliest winters. From the first free consultation to post-installation follow-ups, we focus on efficiency and customer care, so you can focus on relaxing in a home that finally feels just right.
FAQs
What makes an HVAC system “high-efficiency,” and why should I consider upgrading?
A high-efficiency HVAC unit is designed to convert a larger percentage of the energy it consumes into heating or cooling for your home. For furnaces, this is expressed as AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency); for air conditioners and heat pumps, it’s SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or HSPF2 (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). High-efficiency models typically carry AFUE ratings of 95 % or higher and SEER2 ratings in the upper teens or 20s. Upgrading means lower monthly utility bills, reduced carbon footprint, quieter operation, and often better humidity and temperature control. Over the life of the system, the savings in energy costs usually offset the higher upfront price.
How much can I save on energy costs by replacing my old unit with a high-efficiency model?
Savings vary by climate, existing system age, insulation levels, energy rates, and thermostat settings, but homeowners commonly see 20 – 40 % reductions in heating and cooling costs. For example, replacing a 10-SEER air conditioner with a 20-SEER2 model can cut cooling energy use roughly in half. Likewise, upgrading an 80 % AFUE furnace to a 97 % AFUE furnace reduces fuel waste by about 17 %. We offer free in-home assessments that include a customized energy-savings projection so you can see your expected payback period before committing.
How do I know it’s time to replace my current HVAC system instead of repairing it?
Consider replacement when: • Your system is 10–15 years old (AC/heat pump) or 15–20 years old (furnace/boiler). • Repair costs exceed 30 % of the price of a new system. • Energy bills have risen noticeably despite routine maintenance. • You experience uneven temperatures, excessive noise, or frequent breakdowns. • Refrigerant leaks involve R-22 (now phased out and expensive to recharge). A high-efficiency replacement can eliminate recurring repair expenses and lock in lower energy bills right away.
What size or capacity high-efficiency unit do I need for my home?
Correct sizing is crucial; an oversized or undersized system will waste energy, create comfort issues, and shorten equipment life. We perform a Manual J load calculation, which factors in square footage, insulation quality, window type, orientation, local climate data, and occupancy patterns. This engineering-based approach determines the precise BTU capacity for heating and cooling your space. We then recommend matching high-efficiency units—often with variable-speed compressors or modulating gas valves—to deliver the best performance and efficiency.
What does the HVAC replacement process look like, and how long will it take?
1. Free consultation and load calculation (1–2 hours). 2. Equipment selection and detailed quote with efficiency, warranty, and rebate information (same day). 3. Permitting and scheduling (1–5 days, depending on municipality). 4. Removal of old equipment, any duct modifications, and installation of the new high-efficiency unit (typically 1 day for straight swaps, 2–3 days if ductwork, zoning, or accessory upgrades are added). 5. System start-up, commissioning, and homeowner orientation (1–2 hours). 6. Post-installation inspection (if required) and registration of warranties. You’ll have heating or cooling restored the same day we perform the swap in most cases.
Are rebates, tax credits, or financing options available for high-efficiency HVAC replacements?
Yes. Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act offer up to $2,000 for qualifying high-efficiency heat pumps and up to $600 for high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioners, and advanced circulating fans. Many state and utility programs provide additional rebates ranging from $200 to over $1,500. We track all local incentives and prepare the necessary paperwork on your behalf. Flexible financing plans—including 0 % interest promotional terms—are also available to spread the cost over 12–120 months, making it easier to upgrade without large upfront expenses.