When you purchase an older home with the intentions to fix it up, it can be overwhelming to decide what to replace and upgrade first. If you can tell that the HVAC system is outdated and you worry that it isn't efficient or safe, this may be one of the first things that you want to replace or repair. Here are some things to go over with the HVAC contractors and some things that may be the best options to consider so your home is efficient and heating and cooling properly.

Replace Both AC and Heat at the Same Time

If you have to invest in replacing the air conditioning or the furnace, it's best to do both at the same time. The systems are connected together and they share the same ventilation system. Replacing both allows you to get the maximum efficiency because you are already paying for the company to be at your home and there are components between both that have to be replaced at the same time.

Upgrading with Efficiency in Mind

It's important to put an emphasis on replacing the old units with efficient units, and not just the most affordable ones. Most furnace and air conditioning models manufactured today are done so with efficiency in mind, and choosing units that are Energy Star–approved is best.

Not only will you want to choose efficient units that are designed to work for the size and layout of your home, but other changes should be made at the same time. You need to check the caulking around doors and windows, look for areas of air loss around the house, and see if there are insulation problems to worry about.

Look at Humidification and Purification Options

Get a heating system that humidifies the air in the house. If it's an older home with some air loss problems around windows and other areas, it will be ideal to have moist air coming through the furnace during the winter time. An extra filtration or purification system can also be added to your HVAC system to get cleaner and less dusty air.

If your home needs new heating and cooling units, it's best to replace all of the units at the same time. Get quotes from one or more provider to be sure that you are getting the best price, and compare the units that each service provider is recommending be installed in your home. 

Contact a heating service for more information.