Replacement Process
Replacement Process | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Lynchburg
When the sweltering summers or brisk winters of Lynchburg push an aging system past its limits, HEP’s certified technicians step in with a seamless HVAC unit replacement that restores comfort fast. We begin with a no-pressure assessment, measuring your home’s square footage, insulation, and airflow to recommend the ideal high-efficiency model. From securing permits to hauling away the old equipment, every detail is handled in-house, so you enjoy transparent pricing and a single point of contact.
On installation day, our crew arrives on time, shoe covers on, ready to protect your floors and schedule. Most replacements are completed in one visit, and before we leave, you’ll receive a walkthrough of the new smart controls, maintenance tips, and our ironclad workmanship warranty. With HEP, upgrading your climate control isn’t just a transaction—it’s the start of years of lower energy bills and worry-free comfort for your Lynchburg home.
FAQs
When should I replace my HVAC unit instead of repairing it?
Most systems in Lynchburg last 10–15 years for residential comfort cooling and 15–20 years for process-heating or light-commercial equipment. Consider replacement when: (1) the unit is at or beyond these age ranges; (2) major components such as the compressor or heat exchanger fail and the repair cost exceeds about 50 % of a new system; (3) you experience frequent breakdowns or rising energy bills; (4) the system still uses R-22 refrigerant, which is no longer produced; or (5) comfort problems (hot/cold spots, humidity, noise) persist despite service. Upgrading to today’s high-efficiency equipment often lowers operating costs enough to offset the initial investment over a few seasons.
How long will an HVAC replacement take in Lynchburg, and will I be without heating or cooling?
A typical change-out of a residential split system or packaged heat pump can be completed in one full workday. Light-commercial rooftop or process-heating units often take 1–3 days because of crane lifts, curb adapters, and controls tie-ins. You will be without heating or cooling only while the old unit is disconnected and the new one is being set—usually a few hours. We schedule replacements during mild weather whenever possible and can provide temporary portable heaters or spot coolers for critical operations.
What size HVAC system do I need, and how is it determined?
Proper sizing prevents short cycling, high energy bills, and premature wear. We perform an ACCA Manual J (residential) or Manual N (commercial) load calculation that factors in square footage, insulation levels, window types, air infiltration, orientation, occupancy, and—for process heating—internal heat loads from equipment. The new system’s capacity (in BTU/h or tons) and air-flow requirements are matched precisely to the calculated load; we never rely solely on the old unit’s nameplate or rule-of-thumb sizing.
Are there energy-efficient or eco-friendly options, and do they qualify for rebates in Lynchburg?
Yes. High-SEER2 air conditioners, variable-speed heat pumps, modulating gas furnaces, energy-recovery ventilators, and geothermal or water-source systems are all available. Many models carry the ENERGY STAR label. Lynchburg customers served by Appalachian Power may receive rebates for qualifying heat pumps and smart thermostats; Dominion Energy offers incentives for commercial rooftop units. Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act (2023–2032) provide up to $2,000 for heat pumps and 30 % (up to $1,200) for other high-efficiency upgrades. We handle the paperwork to ensure you receive every available incentive.
How much does HVAC replacement cost in the Lynchburg area, and what financing options are available?
Prices vary with capacity, efficiency, and installation complexity. A 2–3 ton 14.3-SEER2 heat-pump system typically runs $5,000–$9,000 installed. High-efficiency variable-speed or dual-fuel systems range from $8,000–$15,000. Large commercial or process-heating rooftop units can exceed $20,000, especially if crane service, curb modifications, or controls integration are required. We offer 0 % APR promotional financing for 12–18 months, low-interest loans up to 120 months, manufacturer rebates, and utility on-bill financing for qualifying customers, making it easier to spread the investment over time.
What warranties and post-installation maintenance plans do you provide?
Most manufacturers include a 10-year parts warranty (register within 60 days), a 10-year compressor warranty on heat pumps, and up to a 20-year heat-exchanger warranty on gas furnaces. We add a 1- or 2-year labor warranty and offer extended labor coverage up to 10 years. Our Comfort Shield maintenance plan includes semi-annual tune-ups, filter changes, priority response, and repair discounts. Regular maintenance keeps the warranty valid, maintains peak efficiency, and documents service history for future property resale in Lynchburg.