As Spokane’s weather swings between chilly winters and warm summers, ensuring your home stays comfortable is key to enjoying every season. Whether it’s gathering with loved ones or simply relaxing after a long day, a dependable HVAC system makes all the difference. At Mainstream Electric, Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we understand how vital it is to keep your home’s climate just right.
Lately, repairing older HVAC systems has become more expensive, and waiting could mean facing even higher costs. With new regulations, rising prices, and advanced technology emerging, now is an ideal time to think about upgrading your system. We’re here to help you navigate these changes and find the best solution for your home comfort needs.
The Impact of New Refrigerant Regulations
If your HVAC system is over ten years old, it likely depends on refrigerants like R-22 or R-410A. These refrigerants were once standard but are being phased out due to environmental regulations. For instance, R-22 is nearly extinct in the market because it harms the ozone layer. Similarly, R-410A is being swapped for newer, environmentally friendly options like A2L refrigerants, which have less impact on global warming.
These changes are hitting homeowners directly. Repairs involving outdated refrigerants, especially R-22, are becoming outrageously expensive as supplies run out. The shrinking availability of these materials has driven up repair costs dramatically. On top of that, technicians must adhere to strict safety protocols with these older refrigerants, adding even more to the bill. For many homeowners, keeping an older system running is becoming a financial headache that won’t go away.
The environmental concerns are hard to ignore, too. New refrigerants are designed to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions, making them a smarter choice for the planet. Upgrading your HVAC system not only ensures compliance with these regulations but also supports a cleaner, safer environment.
Changes in 2025
Come January 1, 2025, the HVAC industry introduced stricter energy efficiency rules aimed at improving performance and reducing energy use. These updates include tougher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER2) standards, which measure how well your HVAC system cools your home. While these changes are great for lowering energy bills in the long run, they’ve also increased the upfront cost of new systems due to the advanced technology needed to meet the new benchmarks.
If you buy a system before 2025, it’s not required to meet these updated standards. However, maintaining older systems may get tougher over time, with compatible parts and refrigerants becoming harder to find. On top of that, potential tariffs on HVAC units from countries like Mexico and China could lead to even steeper price hikes, making future replacements even more expensive.
Switching to a modern system now helps you dodge these uncertainties and rising costs. Today’s HVAC systems offer energy efficiency, reliability, and compliance with current standards—without the added expense of adapting to future regulations.
Why You Should Replace Your HVAC System Now
New Regulations Mean More Confusion
Regulatory changes have brought new HVAC technologies to the market, and not all of them are fully tested or widely available yet. Homeowners who hold out for these next-generation systems might find themselves overwhelmed by unclear options and limited information about long-term performance.
Upgrading today means choosing a reliable, proven system without the guesswork. Current energy-efficient HVAC systems have already been rigorously tested and are built to perform well in everyday conditions. Mainstream partners with top manufacturers to offer trustworthy systems that balance efficiency with dependability, so you know your investment is secure.
The Declining Availability of Older Refrigerants
As older refrigerants like R-22 and R-410A continue to disappear, finding these materials is becoming increasingly difficult and costly. This shortage not only drives up repair prices but also makes it harder to fix older systems quickly. Homeowners with aging units could face long delays during repairs, leaving their homes without heating or cooling when they need it most.
Switching to a new system removes these obstacles. Modern systems use refrigerants that are safer for the environment, more affordable, and readily available. Mainstream’s skilled technicians can help you transition to a system tailored to your home’s needs, giving you peace of mind and reliable performance year-round.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your HVAC System
Not sure if it’s time for a replacement? There are some clear signs to watch for. Systems older than eight years often lag behind modern energy standards, resulting in higher utility bills and uneven heating or cooling. Strange noises like rattling or banging can also indicate that the system is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Frequent breakdowns are another warning sign. If you’ve had to call for repairs multiple times in recent years, your HVAC system might be draining your wallet more than it’s worth. Upgrading to a new system eliminates the hassle and saves you from pouring money into an aging unit.
Older systems can also impact the air quality in your home. They may struggle to filter out dust, allergens, and pollutants, which can affect your family’s health. Replacing your system with a modern one equipped with advanced filtration technology not only improves comfort but also promotes a healthier living space.
Upgrade Your HVAC System with Mainstream Today
As a homeowner in Spokane, you deserve a comfortable home all year round. At Mainstream, we understand the importance of having a reliable and efficient HVAC system, especially with the changing seasons and new regulations on the horizon. Our expert technicians are here to help you navigate the process of upgrading your system, ensuring you find the best solution for your home and budget.
Don’t wait until your old system breaks down or becomes too expensive to repair. By upgrading now, you can take advantage of modern, energy-efficient technology that will keep your home comfortable while saving you money on utility bills. Plus, with Mainstream’s professional installation and maintenance services, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your new system is in good hands.
Contact Mainstream today at (509) 315-8433 to schedule a consultation and learn more about our HVAC replacement options. Let us help you stay ahead of the curve and enjoy a more comfortable, efficient home.
We Are Cooling. We Are Mainstream.
