If you’re sitting in your Fort Worth home wondering about replacing your heat pump, you’ve got a lot of questions running through your head. How Much Does a Heat Pump Cost to Replace in Fort Worth, TX? What exactly am I paying for? Is there a way to save some money on this project?
Well, you’re not alone. Heat pump replacement is one of the biggest HVAC decisions Fort Worth homeowners face, and it’s completely normal to feel uncertain about the pricing.
Here’s the good news: understanding what goes into the cost doesn’t have to be complicated. Most Fort Worth homeowners spend somewhere between $6,000 and $12,500 on a heat pump replacement, but your actual cost depends on several factors specific to your home.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about heat pump replacement costs in Fort Worth. We’ll talk about what affects your price, what’s included in quotes, signs you need heat pump replacement, and how to make smart decisions about your HVAC system.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Heat Pump in Fort Worth, TX?
1. Average Heat Pump Replacement Cost Range
Let me give you the straightforward answer: most heat pump replacements in Fort Worth run between $6,000 and $12,500, including the unit and installation.
But here’s what you really need to know. That range covers most homeowners with standard Heat pump installation situations. Your specific cost depends on what system you choose and what your home requires.
Think of it like buying a car. You can get a basic model or a luxury version. Both will get you from point A to point B, but the features and price are different.
2. Entry Level vs Mid Range vs High Efficiency Systems
Entry level systems are the budget-friendly option. These units cost less upfront and get the job done. If you’re just looking for heating and cooling without worrying about long-term energy savings, this might work for you.
Most homeowners actually go with mid-range systems. These offer better efficiency than basic models without the premium price tag of high-end units. They’re the sweet spot for many Fort Worth homes.
High efficiency models cost more upfront, but they can save you real money on your utility bills. We’re talking potentially hundreds of dollars per year in some cases. Over the life of the system, that adds up quickly.
3. What’s Typically Included in the Base Price
When a contractor quotes you $8,000 for a heat pump replacement, what exactly are you getting?
The base price includes the heat pump unit itself. That’s the equipment you’re replacing. It also covers the labor to remove your old system and install the new one.
You get refrigerant lines, which are the copper tubing that connects your outdoor and indoor units. Proper installation and charging of refrigerant is included too.
Basic electrical work comes with the package. That means connecting the unit to your home’s electrical system properly.
The old system gets removed and disposed of. Your contractor handles taking out the equipment that’s no longer working.
What’s NOT usually included? That’s where things get tricky. Optional upgrades, permit fees, duct modifications, or additional electrical work cost extra.
4. Typical Price Differences Between Older and Newer Homes
If you live in a home built in the last 10 or 15 years, you probably have better infrastructure. Your electrical panel is more modern, your ducts are sized appropriately, and your home meets current building codes.
That makes your heat pump replacement straightforward and keeps costs closer to the lower end of the range.
Older Fort Worth homes sometimes tell a different story. A home built in the 1970s or 1980s might have outdated electrical wiring or ductwork that wasn’t designed for modern heat pump systems.
You might need to upgrade your electrical panel or circuit breakers. Your ducts might need sealing or modifications. These additions push your cost up significantly.
It’s not that contractors are charging more for older homes to be unfair. They’re charging more because the actual work required is greater.
What Factors Increase or Decrease the Cost of Heat Pump Replacement in Fort Worth?
1. Heat Pump System Size and Capacity
This is crucial, so pay attention. Heat pump size is measured in tons, and it directly affects your cost.
A smaller home might need just a 2-ton system. That’s the least expensive option. A medium-sized Fort Worth home typically needs a 3 or 3.5-ton system. Larger homes go up to 4, 4.5, or even 5 tons.
Here’s the thing: each step up in tonnage costs more in equipment and more in labor to install. A 5-ton system costs noticeably more than a 2-ton system.
But here’s where people get into trouble. Some homeowners try to save money by choosing an undersized unit. A system that’s too small will run constantly, wear out faster, and still won’t keep you comfortable. That’s false economy.
The right approach is getting a professional load calculation done. This determines exactly what size your home needs based on square footage, insulation, window size, and other factors.
2. Energy Efficiency Rating and Technology Level
You’ll hear contractors talk about SEER ratings. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. A higher SEER rating means better efficiency.
A standard heat pump might have a SEER rating of 13 or 14. These are less expensive units.
High-efficiency models have SEER ratings of 16, 18, or even 20 or higher. These cost more upfront but deliver real energy savings.
Variable-speed compressors are another technology feature that increases cost. These systems run at different speeds depending on your needs, which is more efficient than systems that just run full-blast or not at all.
Smart controls and smartphone apps cost extra too. But many homeowners find the convenience worth the investment.
The premium price for high efficiency typically pays for itself within 5 to 10 years through lower energy bills.
3. Home Square Footage and Insulation Quality
A 1,500-square-foot home needs a different heat pump than a 3,000-square-foot home.
It sounds obvious, but here’s what surprises people: a home that’s not well insulated needs a more powerful heat pump than a well-insulated home of the same size.
If your home has poor insulation, air leaks, or old windows, more of your heated or cooled air escapes. Your heat pump has to work harder to maintain your temperature. That means you need a larger, more expensive unit.
A Fort Worth home with excellent insulation, sealed air leaks, and good windows can use a smaller, less expensive heat pump and still stay comfortable.
This is why some contractors recommend addressing insulation or air sealing before replacing your heat pump. It might save you money on equipment and reduce your energy bills even more.
4. Existing Ductwork Condition
Your ductwork is like the circulatory system of your HVAC system. It carries heated and cooled air throughout your home.
If your ducts are in good condition, properly sized, and well-sealed, your replacement cost stays reasonable. You just install the new system and connect it to existing ducts.
But if your ducts are leaky, damaged, or undersized, that’s a problem. Leaky ducts waste energy and reduce efficiency. Undersized ducts can’t deliver air properly.
When duct issues exist, your contractor should seal, repair, or replace them alongside your heat pump installation. This increases your cost but dramatically improves your system’s performance.
We’ll talk more about ductwork costs in a section coming up, but understand right now that duct condition significantly impacts your total project cost.
5. Installation Difficulty and System Accessibility
Some Fort Worth homes make installation easy. Your outdoor unit location is accessible, your electrical panel is nearby, and the work proceeds smoothly.
Other homes present challenges. Maybe the outdoor unit has to go in a tight corner. Maybe you have limited attic space for indoor components. Maybe your electrical panel is in an inconvenient location.
These challenges mean your contractor spends more time on site. More time equals higher labor costs.
Installation in a tight space requires more skill and care to do properly. Difficult roof or attic work takes longer. Hard-to-access locations might require special equipment or extra crew members.
When a contractor gives you an estimate, they’re factoring in these complications. A straightforward installation in an easy location costs less than a complex installation in a difficult location.
Does the Size of My Home Impact the Heat Pump Replacement Cost?
1. How Home Size Determines Heat Pump Tonnage
Let’s talk about this more directly. Your home’s size is one of the biggest factors in determining your heat pump cost.
Fort Worth contractors use established guidelines to size heat pump systems. Generally, you need about 1 ton of heat pump capacity for every 400 to 600 square feet of home.
That means:
- A 1,200-square-foot home needs about a 2-ton system
- A 2,000-square-foot home typically uses a 3 to 3.5-ton system
- A 3,000-square-foot home usually needs a 4 to 4.5-ton system
- A 4,500-square-foot home might require a 5-ton system
Each step up in tonnage means a more powerful system, larger equipment, and higher cost.
A 2-ton unit is the least expensive. Moving up to 3 or 3.5 tons costs more. A 5-ton system is notably pricier.
But size also affects labor time. Installing a larger outdoor unit takes more time and effort than installing a smaller one. So your labor costs rise with tonnage as well.
2. Risks of Installing an Undersized System
Some homeowners are tempted to cut costs by choosing a smaller system than their home actually needs.
Here’s what happens when you do that: the system runs constantly trying to reach your desired temperature. It never fully catches up.
An undersized heat pump can’t maintain your comfort in Fort Worth’s hot summers or cold winters. You’ll have hot and cold spots throughout your home.
The system wears out faster because it’s always working at maximum capacity. You’ll face more repair calls and will need replacement sooner.
Your energy bills might actually be higher, not lower, because the system is inefficient. You saved money upfront but lost money on bills and repairs.
That’s why undersizing is a false economy. It seems like savings until you realize the problems it creates.
3. Problems Caused by Oversized Heat Pumps
On the flip side, what about getting a system that’s too large?
An oversized heat pump reaches your desired temperature quickly, then cycles on and off frequently. That constant cycling is hard on the equipment.
When a system cycles on and off repeatedly, it doesn’t run long enough to dehumidify properly. In humid Fort Worth summers, you might feel sticky and uncomfortable.
The frequent cycling reduces efficiency and increases energy use. So you pay more upfront for a larger system and higher energy bills to operate it.
The equipment wears out faster due to all that on-off cycling. You’ll need repairs sooner and replacement sooner.
Oversizing doesn’t help you. It hurts your wallet and your comfort.
4. Why Proper Load Calculation Matters
This is where professional HVAC contractors earn their value. A proper load calculation takes your home’s specifics into account.
Your contractor measures your home’s square footage, examines your insulation, checks your windows, looks at your air sealing, and considers Fort Worth’s climate.
They also factor in your home’s orientation. A home facing west gets more afternoon sun than one facing north. They consider how much shade trees provide.
They look at how many people typically live in your home and your lifestyle habits. They ask about your comfort preferences.
All of this goes into a calculation that determines the exact size system your home needs. Not bigger, not smaller. Just right.
When the size is right, your system runs efficiently, your comfort is optimal, and your Heat pump installation costs reflect what you actually need.
Getting a professional load calculation is worth the time. It prevents overpaying for a system that’s too large or underpaying for a system that won’t work properly.
How Much Does Labor Cost for Heat Pump Replacement in Fort Worth?
1. Average Labor Cost Range for Installation
Let’s break down the labor portion of your heat pump replacement cost.
In Fort Worth, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $4,000 in labor for a standard heat pump installation.
That covers removing your old system, installing the new one, testing everything, charging the refrigerant, and making sure it’s working properly.
The exact amount depends on complexity. A straightforward replacement in an easy location lands toward the lower end. A complex job in a difficult location costs more.
Some contractors charge hourly rates, which typically run $100 to $150 per hour in Fort Worth. Others charge a flat rate for the entire job.
Flat rates are often preferable because you know the total upfront. Hourly rates can be uncertain because you don’t know exactly how long it will take.
2. Cost of Removing the Old Heat Pump
Removing your existing heat pump is usually included in the base installation cost. Your contractor handles taking out the old equipment.
But there’s sometimes an extra charge if your old system contains refrigerant that requires special handling. Older systems often use R-22 refrigerant, which is being phased out due to environmental concerns.
R-22 removal and proper disposal can add to your cost if the contractor itemizes it separately. This is worth asking about in your estimate.
Some old systems also contain other components that require special disposal. Your contractor should be upfront about any additional removal fees.
In most cases, though, removal costs are bundled into the standard installation price.
3. Permit and Inspection Considerations
Fort Worth requires permits for HVAC work. Your contractor should pull these permits as part of their service.
Permit costs typically range from $100 to $300 in Fort Worth. The exact amount depends on your location within the city or county.
Permits exist for safety. They ensure your system is installed according to code. An inspector comes to your home to verify the installation meets requirements.
Some contractors bundle permit costs into their quote. Others itemize it as a separate line. Make sure you ask so you understand what you’re paying.
Don’t skip permits to save money. An unpermitted installation can cause problems when you sell your home. It might also void your warranty or cause issues with your homeowner’s insurance.
4. How Local Labor Rates Affect Final Pricing
Fort Worth’s labor rates are slightly higher than the national average. That’s simply the cost of living and doing business in this area.
A licensed HVAC technician in Fort Worth goes through apprenticeship and training. They maintain certifications and insurance. They’ve invested in tools and equipment.
The rates they charge reflect their expertise and the value they provide. Cheap labor often means inexperienced technicians or cut corners on quality.
When you get a quote for $2,500 in labor, you’re paying for a skilled professional who knows Fort Worth homes, understands local codes, and does quality work.
Compare quotes from multiple contractors, but don’t choose solely based on price. The cheapest isn’t always the best value.
Is Ductwork Replacement or Modification Included in the Heat Pump Cost?
1. When Existing Ductwork Can Be Reused
The best-case scenario is your existing ductwork is in good shape and doesn’t need any modifications.
Your contractor inspects your ducts during the assessment. They’re looking for leaks, damage, proper sizing, and good condition.
If your ducts pass inspection, you’re in luck. Your ductwork gets reused with the new system. You save money because no duct work is needed.
This is more common in newer Fort Worth homes with modern ductwork. Homes built in the last 15 or 20 years often have ducts that work well with modern heat pump systems.
Proper ductwork was installed when the home was built to work with whatever heating and cooling system it had. When you replace the system with one of similar size and capacity, the ducts usually still work fine.
2. Situations That Require Duct Sealing or Repairs
Many older Fort Worth homes have ductwork that’s been in place for decades. It might have been installed well 40 or 50 years ago, but time takes a toll.
Ductwork can develop leaks as seals deteriorate. Ducts can get damaged if pipes or other work disturbs them. Connections between duct sections can loosen.
Leaky ducts waste conditioned air. As much as 20 or 30 percent of the air your system produces might escape through leaks. That means your heat pump works harder than it should and your energy bills are higher.
Your contractor might recommend duct sealing using mastic sealant or tape. This closes leaks and improves efficiency.
Sometimes ducts need repair if they’re damaged. A section might be dented or crushed. It might need replacement.
Duct sealing adds to your project cost, but it’s usually $500 to $1,500. That investment pays back through energy savings over a couple of years.
3. Full Duct Replacement Scenarios
In some cases, ductwork is in such poor condition or so poorly sized that sealing isn’t enough. The ducts need replacement.
This happens when ducts are severely damaged, collapsed, or undersized for your new heat pump. If your new system is more powerful than the old one, undersized ducts can’t deliver the airflow your system produces.
Full duct replacement is a significant undertaking. New ductwork, fittings, and connections. Installation in walls, attics, or crawl spaces. Proper sizing for your new system.
Duct replacement typically costs $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on how much ductwork needs replacing and how difficult the installation is.
If your Fort Worth home needs full duct replacement alongside your heat pump replacement, your total project cost climbs considerably. But you’re getting a properly functioning system that works efficiently.
4. How Duct Issues Increase Total Replacement Cost
Here’s how the math works. You budget $7,500 for heat pump replacement. Then the contractor assesses your ducts and finds problems.
Duct sealing might add $800. Duct repair might add $1,200. These moderate modifications can add $2,000 to $3,000 to your project.
If full duct replacement is needed, you’re looking at an additional $3,000 to $5,000 or more.
Suddenly your $7,500 project becomes $10,000 or $12,000.
That’s why getting a thorough inspection before work starts is important. Your contractor should scope out ductwork issues and include them in the estimate.
It’s better to know about duct issues upfront than discover them mid-project and face surprise costs.
How Much More Does a High Efficiency Heat Pump Cost Compared to a Standard Model?
1. Price Difference Between Standard and High Efficiency Units
Let’s talk about efficiency and what it costs.
A basic, standard-efficiency heat pump might cost $2,500 to $3,500 for the unit itself.
A high-efficiency unit from the same manufacturer typically costs $3,500 to $5,500 or more.
So you’re looking at a premium of $1,000 to $2,000 or sometimes higher for high efficiency.
That’s a real difference. But the question is whether it’s worth it.
2. Energy Savings Over Time for Fort Worth Homeowners
Here’s where high efficiency starts making sense.
A high-efficiency heat pump with a SEER rating of 18 or higher uses significantly less electricity than a standard unit with a SEER rating of 14.
In Fort Worth’s hot summers, that difference adds up. You might save $50 to $100 per month during cooling season with a high-efficiency unit.
Over a year, that’s $600 to $1,200 in savings. Over 10 years, it’s $6,000 to $12,000.
If you paid an extra $1,500 for high efficiency, you break even in about 18 months. Everything after that is savings.
Fort Worth’s hot climate makes heat pumps work harder in summer. That makes high efficiency especially valuable here.
3. Comfort and Performance Improvements
Beyond energy savings, high-efficiency units offer better performance.
Variable-speed technology delivers more consistent temperatures. You don’t get those temperature swings you might experience with basic units.
Better dehumidification in summer means you feel more comfortable even when the temperature is set the same way.
High-efficiency units tend to run quieter. They don’t work as hard, so they produce less noise.
Smart controls let you monitor and adjust your system from your smartphone. You can check temperatures, adjust settings, or get alerts about issues.
These comfort improvements might not have a direct dollar value, but they make your daily life better.
4. Payback Period Considerations
The payback period is how long it takes for energy savings to equal the extra money you spent.
For a $1,500 premium on a high-efficiency unit with $100 monthly savings, your payback period is 15 months.
But it depends on your energy usage and local electricity rates. Someone who runs their heat pump more has faster payback. Someone who uses it less has a longer payback.
In Fort Worth’s hot climate, most homeowners achieve payback within 5 to 10 years. After that, the high efficiency saves money.
For homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term, high efficiency makes financial sense. You get savings that compound over the years.
How Long Does Heat Pump Replacement Take in a Fort Worth Home?
1. Typical Same Day Replacement Timeline
The simplest heat pump replacements finish in one day.
Your contractor arrives in the morning. They remove the old unit, haul it away, and install the new one.
They charge the refrigerant, test all the functions, and make sure everything is running properly.
They show you how to use the new system, answer your questions, and you’re good to go.
This happens when there are no complications. The ductwork is fine, no electrical work is needed, and the installation location is accessible.
A straightforward replacement can be complete by afternoon.
2. Factors That Extend Installation Time
Complications make the job take longer.
If ductwork needs sealing or repair, that adds time. Your contractor might need to use special equipment or access crawl spaces and attics.
If your electrical panel needs upgrades or new circuits need running, that’s additional work. Electrical code compliance takes time.
If the outdoor unit location is difficult to access, installation takes longer. It might require careful maneuvering or temporary structures.
If the indoor unit requires relocation or modifications to fit in the current location, that extends the job.
3. Impact of Ductwork or Electrical Upgrades
Major ductwork replacement is a multi-day project. Your contractor might be back for two or three days, working on ducts before or after the heat pump installation.
Electrical upgrades can be complicated. Your electrician might need to coordinate with the HVAC contractor. It might require a city inspector to verify the work.
These upgrades can easily extend a project from one day to three or four days.
Your contractor should give you a timeline estimate that accounts for expected additional work.
4. What Homeowners Should Expect on Installation Day
Your contractors will arrive in a truck with tools and equipment. They’ll set up work areas inside and outside your home.
Outside, they’ll remove your old outdoor unit carefully. It’s heavy and contains refrigerant.
They’ll install the new outdoor unit in the same location (unless you discussed a different location). They’ll connect refrigerant lines, electrical connections, and condensate drainage.
Inside, they might remove your old indoor unit if it’s being replaced. They’ll install the new one, connecting ducts and electrical.
Everything gets tested. The system cycles through heating and cooling to verify operation.
You’ll want someone home during installation. Your contractor might need to access different areas of your home and might have questions.
What Questions Should I Ask a Fort Worth HVAC Contractor Before Replacing My Heat Pump?
1. Warranty Coverage on Equipment and Labor
Ask about both warranty types.
Heating equipment warranty is what the manufacturer provides. This typically lasts 5 to 10 years on parts and sometimes longer on the compressor.
Labor warranty is what the contractor provides. Does the contractor guarantee their work for a year? Five years?
A contractor who stands behind their work usually offers a multi-year labor warranty.
Get the warranty details in writing. Know what’s covered and what happens if something fails.
2. Load Calculation and System Sizing Process
Ask if the contractor performs a professional load calculation.
Don’t accept answers like “I’ve installed thousands of systems and I can eyeball it.” That’s not professional.
A real load calculation uses software and measured data about your home. It considers insulation, windows, air leaks, and square footage.
Ask how they approach sizing. If they say they’ll just replace it with the same size as the old unit, be cautious. Your needs might have changed.
3. Brand and Model Recommendations
Ask which brands and models the contractor recommends for your home.
A reputable contractor recommends equipment that fits your needs and budget. They should explain why they recommend specific models.
Ask about the reputation of brands they recommend. Is it a major manufacturer? Is it reliable?
Ask if they service the brands they recommend. You want someone who knows your system intimately and can service it for years to come.
4. Maintenance Plans and Service Agreements
Ask about maintenance plans. Many contractors offer annual maintenance agreements.
A good heating maintenance plan includes spring and fall inspections, filter changes, cleaning, and priority service if something breaks.
These plans typically cost $150 to $300 per year but can extend your system’s life and catch problems early.
Ask what regular maintenance costs if you don’t use a plan. You want to budget for annual check-ups.
5. Financing and Payment Options
Ask about payment options. Can you pay in full, or does the contractor offer financing?
Many contractors partner with financing companies to offer monthly payments.
Understand the terms. What’s the interest rate? How long is the loan? What’s your monthly payment?
Sometimes financing makes sense because you get federal tax credits back that help cover payments.
Final Thoughts
Replacing your heat pump is a significant decision and investment. You’ve got a lot of information now about what affects the cost, what’s included, and what your options are.
The most important thing is finding a contractor you trust. Someone who listens to your needs, explains their recommendations clearly, and stands behind their work.
Don’t rush this decision. Get multiple quotes, ask questions, and understand what you’re getting for your money.
Your home’s comfort depends on having the right heating and cooling system installed properly. That’s worth taking time to do right.
If you have specific questions about your home’s situation, talk to a licensed Fort Worth HVAC contractor. They can assess your home, answer your questions, and give you an accurate quote for your specific needs.
You’ve got this. Go make an informed decision about your heat pump replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Pump Replacement in Fort Worth
1. How long does a heat pump typically last in Fort Worth?
Modern heat pumps usually last between 10 and 15 years with proper maintenance. Some systems last longer with excellent care. The hot Fort Worth summers mean your system works hard, which can shorten lifespan slightly. Keeping up with yearly maintenance helps you get the longest life possible from your system.
2. Can I replace just the outdoor unit of my heat pump?
In many cases, yes, you can replace just the outdoor unit. But here’s what you need to know: pairing a new outdoor unit with an old indoor unit might reduce efficiency. The two components work together, and mismatching old and new reduces performance.
If your indoor unit is still working well and relatively new, replacing just the outdoor unit might make sense. If your indoor unit is old or showing signs of wear, replacing both gives you better results and warranty coverage. Ask your contractor for their recommendation based on your specific situation.
3. Do heat pumps work efficiently in Texas summers and winters?
Heat pumps are excellent for Fort Worth’s climate. They handle summers extremely well, providing efficient cooling. In winter, Fort Worth’s moderate temperatures are ideal for heat pump operation.
Heat pumps work best in climates where winter temperatures don’t drop far below freezing. Fort Worth’s winters rarely go that cold, making heat pumps perfect for this area.
During those few times when temperatures do drop significantly, your system has backup heating to keep you warm. So yes, heat pumps are efficient and effective year-round in Fort Worth.
4. Will a new heat pump lower my energy bills immediately?
Yes, a new high-efficiency heat pump typically lowers energy bills immediately compared to an old system.
You’ll see the biggest difference if you’re replacing an older, inefficient unit. A system that’s 15 years old uses significantly more energy than a modern system.
If you’re replacing a newer system that was working fine, the savings might be more modest. But switching to high efficiency from standard efficiency always saves money.
Your exact savings depend on your electricity rates, how much you run the system, and your old system’s efficiency. Many homeowners see monthly savings of $50 to $150 during peak seasons.
5. Is financing available for heat pump replacement?
Yes, many Fort Worth HVAC contractors offer financing options. You can spread the cost over 12 to 84 months depending on the program.
Financing makes large upfront costs manageable. With monthly payments of $150 to $300, the replacement becomes affordable.
Interest rates vary, so ask about the terms before committing. Some contractors partner with specific lenders. Compare options to find the best terms.
Remember to factor in federal tax credits and utility rebates when calculating your net cost with financing. You might get money back that helps cover payments.
6. When is the best time of year to replace a heat pump in Fort Worth?
Spring and fall offer some advantages for heat pump replacement.
During these mild seasons, your contractor’s schedule is often less busy. You might get faster scheduling and potentially better labor rates.
Spring replacement means your new system is ready for Fort Worth’s hot summer. Fall replacement prepares you for any cold winter weather.
Summer is the busiest season for HVAC contractors. If you need service during peak summer, wait times are longer and emergency rates might apply.
Winter is less ideal because if anything goes wrong during installation, you might be uncomfortable without heating.
That said, if your heat pump breaks down, you don’t have the luxury of choosing the timing. Get it replaced when you need it. But if you have the flexibility to plan ahead, spring and fall are better choices.
