What to Know Before HVAC Replacement

If you have lived in Central Iowa for any length of time, you know the weather does not play around. One week in October feels like spring. January can bring sub-zero wind chills. July humidity pushes systems to their limits. With those extremes, your heating and cooling system is not just a convenience. It is essential. If you are starting to research what to know before HVAC replacement, you are already ahead of the game.

Replacing your system is a major investment, and there have been important industry changes recently that every homeowner should understand before making a decision.  Efficiency standards are changing, tax credits are sunsetting, and there’s a lot of talk about heat pumps and A2L refrigerants.

If you want an honest, locally owned HVAC partner in Des Moines, Modern Heating and Air has been serving central Iowa for over 15 years. We want to make sure you aren’t left in the cold (or the heat) when it comes to understanding these changes. Here is what matters most right now.

What to Know Before HVAC Replacement in 2026

There have been several updates across the HVAC industry that affect equipment design, efficiency ratings, and pricing. While most homeowners are focused on installation cost, understanding these changes helps you make a smarter long-term choice.

New Refrigerant Standards

One of the biggest shifts involves refrigerants. The industry is moving toward newer refrigerants known as A2L. These options have a lower global warming potential than older refrigerants like R-410A.

Because of this transition:

• Manufacturers have redesigned equipment components
• Installation requirements have evolved
• Technicians must complete updated training

These refrigerants are classified as mildly flammable, but equipment is built and tested to meet strict safety standards. The key takeaway is that systems installed today are different from systems installed even a few years ago.

If your current system requires a major refrigerant-related repair, compatibility may become an issue. In some cases, replacement could make more long-term financial sense than investing heavily in outdated equipment. Our team at Modern Heating and Air are specifically trained to install and handle these new refrigerant systems.

SEER vs SEER2 Ratings

If you have compared quotes recently, you may have noticed the term SEER2 instead of SEER. The federal government updated testing procedures to better reflect real-world operating conditions.

Think of it as a more realistic efficiency measurement. The updated SEER2 rating accounts for factors that older tests did not fully capture.

Important things to know:

• SEER2 numbers often look lower than older SEER ratings
• The equipment is not necessarily less efficient
• Minimum efficiency standards have increased

Higher standards can raise entry-level equipment costs slightly, but they are designed to improve real-world energy performance.

Understanding this difference is part of knowing what to know before HVAC replacement so you can compare estimates accurately. At Modern Heating and Air, we can evaluate your home and help you understand the tradeoffs between efficiency ratings, compatibility with your existing ductwork, and the upfront price tag.

How Iowa Weather Impacts Your Decision

Not every region faces the same heating and cooling demands. In Central Iowa, systems must handle both extended cold spells and intense summer heat.

That makes proper sizing and installation critical.

A system that is too small may struggle during extreme temperatures. A system that is too large may short cycle, which can reduce efficiency and comfort.

Professional load calculations, often referred to as Manual J calculations, evaluate:

• Square footage
• Insulation levels
• Window exposure
• Duct layout
• Air leakage

This process ensures the system matches your home’s actual needs.

Heat Pumps in Cold Climates

Many homeowners ask whether heat pumps are effective during Iowa winters.

The short answer is yes, when properly selected and installed.

Cold-climate heat pump technology has improved significantly over the past decade. Many models are engineered to maintain heating capacity at temperatures well below freezing. Some units are rated to operate at temperatures approaching negative 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

That said, design matters. In Iowa, hybrid systems are common. These combine a heat pump with a gas furnace backup for the coldest days of the year. This approach can balance efficiency and reliability.

When evaluating what to know before HVAC replacement, it is worth discussing heat pump options with a qualified contractor to determine whether your home is a good fit.

What About Tax Credits and Rebates?

Financial incentives often play a role in replacement timing.

The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, commonly referred to as 25C, previously offered tax credits for qualifying upgrades. Certain provisions were scheduled with specific timelines, and eligibility can change from year to year.

It is important to verify:

• Current federal credit availability
• Qualification requirements
• Equipment efficiency thresholds
• Documentation needed for tax filing

In addition to federal programs, local utilities may offer rebates for high-efficiency equipment. Utility rebate programs can vary and may have limited funding windows.

Resources such as DSIRE and MidAmerican Energy provide updated information on local incentives. However, working with a contractor familiar with local programs can help ensure your chosen equipment qualifies where applicable.

Incentives should support your decision, but they should not be the only reason to replace a system. Navigating rebates can feel like doing homework, but we can help. Modern Heating and Air can identify which local rebates you qualify for and ensure the equipment we install meets the strict program requirements.

Signs It May Be Time to Replace

While this blog focuses on what to know before HVAC replacement, you may also be wondering whether now is the right time.

Common indicators include:

• System age approaching 12 to 15 years
• Frequent repair calls
• Rising energy bills without usage changes
• Uneven temperatures
• Loud operation or short cycling

A professional inspection can help you evaluate whether repair or replacement is more practical.

Installation Quality Matters

Equipment brand and efficiency rating are important, but installation quality often has an even greater impact on long-term performance.

Proper installation includes:

• Accurate refrigerant charging
• Correct airflow adjustment
• Duct sealing and inspection
• Electrical and safety checks

Even high-efficiency equipment can underperform if not installed correctly.

Modern Heating and Air has served Des Moines and surrounding communities for more than 15 years. Our team focuses on residential systems tailored for Iowa’s climate and designed for reliable performance across seasons.

Planning Ahead Pays Off

Replacing an HVAC system during an emergency limits your options. When a unit fails during a heat wave or cold snap, decisions often feel rushed.

Planning ahead allows you to:

• Compare efficiency levels
• Evaluate heat pump options
• Research incentives
• Schedule installation at a convenient time

If your system is aging but still operating, this may be a good time to begin gathering information.

Understanding what to know before HVAC replacement puts you in control rather than reacting under pressure.

Final Thoughts

Iowa weather demands dependable heating and cooling. With updated refrigerants, new efficiency standards, evolving tax incentives, and improved heat pump technology, today’s replacement decisions involve more than just choosing a brand.

Take time to understand system compatibility, proper sizing, installation quality, and available incentives before moving forward.

If you have questions about efficiency ratings, refrigerant changes, heat pump performance, or whether it is time to upgrade, Modern Heating and Air is here to help. We provide straightforward evaluations and practical recommendations tailored to homes in Des Moines and across Central Iowa.

Call Modern Heating and Air at 515-635-5525 to schedule a consultation and let us help you FEEL GOOD INSIDE.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an HVAC system typically last?

Most systems last 12 to 15 years, though lifespan varies depending on maintenance and usage.

Are heat pumps efficient in Iowa winters?

Modern cold-climate heat pumps can operate effectively in freezing temperatures, especially when properly sized or paired with backup heat.

What is SEER2?

SEER2 is an updated efficiency rating system that reflects more realistic operating conditions compared to older SEER measurements.

Are HVAC tax credits still available?

Availability and eligibility can change. Always verify current federal and local incentive programs before making a purchase.

Should I replace my system before it fails?

Planning replacement before failure allows more flexibility, research time, and scheduling options.