HVAC Contractor
in Exeter?

Yes — modern cold-climate heat pumps are now rated down to -13°F and work efficiently in Exeter's winters. A heat pump provides both heating and cooling, potentially replacing both your AC and furnace. Efficiency is measured in HSPF2 for heating — look for 9+ for PA climates. Installation costs $5031-$13102 for a full system, but Inflation Reduction Act tax credits (up to $2,000) and PA utility rebates can significantly offset costs. Our Exeter contractors can advise on current incentives.

In Exeter's climate — hot, humid summers and cold winters — a well-maintained central AC system typically lasts 15-20 years. Gas furnaces last 20-25 years. Heat pumps last 15-20 years. Regular annual maintenance (tune-ups at $104-$398) significantly extends equipment life and efficiency. Signs it's time to replace: system is 15+ years old, frequent repairs, R-22 refrigerant (no longer produced), or rising energy bills despite maintenance.

General rule: if your AC is over 12 years old and repair cost exceeds $1,000 (e.g., compressor failure), replacement is usually the better investment at $4402-$11006. If the system is under 10 years old and the repair is under $500-600, repair makes sense. The '5,000 rule': multiply the system's age by the repair cost — if over $5,000, replace. Also consider: R-22 refrigerant (being phased out, very expensive to recharge), rising energy bills, and uneven cooling. A licensed Exeter HVAC tech can advise after diagnosis.

Proper AC sizing is critical — oversized systems short-cycle and cause humidity problems; undersized systems can't keep up on hot PA days. The correct method is a Manual J load calculation performed by your licensed Exeter HVAC contractor, which accounts for your home's square footage, insulation, window area, ceiling height, and local climate data. As a rough guide: 1 ton per 600-1,000 sq ft, but don't let a contractor quote based on square footage alone without a proper load calculation.

A new central air conditioning system in Exeter typically costs between $4402 and $11006, including the outdoor condenser unit, air handler or coil, refrigerant line set, thermostat, and labor. Price varies based on home size, efficiency rating (SEER2), and whether ductwork modifications are needed. Heat pump systems range from $5031 to $13102. Get a free written estimate from a licensed Exeter HVAC contractor before committing.

Furnace replacement in Exeter typically runs $3668 to $9434 for a natural gas system, including the unit, venting, thermostat and labor. High-efficiency (96%+ AFUE) models cost more upfront but save significantly on Pennsylvania gas bills — often paying back in 3-5 years. The final price depends on home size, BTU requirements, and whether venting modifications are needed. A licensed Exeter HVAC contractor will perform a load calculation to properly size your system.