Aging HVAC System
Aging HVAC System | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Knoxville
When your furnace strains on frosty January mornings or your A/C wheezes through July humidity, it’s a sign the comfort workhorse in your Knoxville home is nearing the end of its life. HEP’s certified technicians make the transition painless with expert HVAC unit replacement, guiding you from the first inspection to the final test-run of a high-efficiency system that slashes energy bills and restores reliable, even temperatures.
We handle every detail—proper sizing, ductwork evaluation, permitting, and haul-away of the old equipment—so you can focus on enjoying cleaner air and quieter operation. Backed by transparent pricing, flexible financing, and a rock-solid workmanship guarantee, HEP is the local team you can trust to turn an aging HVAC headache into year-round comfort that’s built to last.
FAQs
How do I know it’s time to replace my aging HVAC system in Knoxville?
Most air conditioners last 10–15 years and furnaces/heat pumps 15–20 years. Knoxville’s humid summers, pollen, and occasional winter freezes can shorten that life span. Telltale signs you need a replacement include rising utility bills, rooms that are too hot or too cold, frequent or costly repairs, loud operation, or an AC that still uses banned R-22 refrigerant. If your unit is over a decade old and repairs now exceed 40% of the cost of a new system, replacement usually makes financial sense.
What type and size of HVAC unit is best for East Tennessee homes?
A proper Manual J load calculation is the only way to size equipment correctly; square footage alone is not enough. For Knoxville’s mixed-humid climate, high-efficiency heat pumps (15–20 SEER2) or dual-fuel systems that switch to gas heat on the coldest nights offer excellent year-round comfort. Variable-speed compressors and ECM blower motors control humidity in summer, reduce noise, and cut energy use. An oversized system will short-cycle and leave your home muggy, while an undersized one can’t keep up during July’s 90 °F afternoons, so professional sizing is critical.
How much energy could I save by upgrading to a modern system?
Older air conditioners built before 2006 often run at 8–10 SEER, whereas today’s minimum is 14.3 SEER2 and premium models exceed 20 SEER2. Furnaces have moved from 70–80% AFUE to 95–98% AFUE. Many Knoxville homeowners see heating and cooling costs drop 20–40%, especially when pairing high-efficiency equipment with a smart thermostat. In addition, the Inflation Reduction Act currently offers a federal tax credit of up to 30% (capped at $2,000) for qualifying heat pumps, and TVA’s EnergyRight program provides rebates for certain high-efficiency installations.
What does a full HVAC replacement cost in the Knoxville area, and are financing or rebates available?
A typical 2–3 ton heat-pump replacement, including indoor air handler, thermostat, and basic duct modifications, runs $6,000–$12,000 depending on efficiency, brand, and options such as zoning. Gas furnaces with separate condensers fall in a similar range. Extensive ductwork, indoor air quality add-ons, or variable-speed compressors can add 15–30%. We offer 0% APR financing for up to 60 months (with approved credit), TVA EnergyRight rebates, and we handle all paperwork for federal tax credits so you keep more cash in your pocket.
How long will I be without heating or cooling during the replacement?
Most straight “change-outs” take one full working day. If ductwork repairs, new line sets, or electrical upgrades are needed, plan on 1½–3 days. We schedule installations to minimize downtime and can provide temporary portable heaters or window AC units at no charge for vulnerable customers. After installation, we test, start up, and commission the equipment the same day so you can sleep comfortably that night.
Do I need permits or inspections to replace my HVAC system in Knoxville?
Yes. Knox County and the City of Knoxville both require a mechanical permit for any HVAC equipment replacement. The work must comply with the International Mechanical Code, local amendments, and TVA duct-sealing standards to qualify for rebates. Our licensed technicians pull the permit, coordinate inspections, and provide you with documentation for resale or insurance purposes. We also handle environmentally safe recovery of old refrigerants and ensure your new system uses current, EPA-approved refrigerants such as R-410A or R-32.