My central AC is 20 years old. It still works, but, given the age, I'm concerned that the need for a new system may not be that far into the future. When it comes time install a new condenser, I probably would want to install a new furnace too, since it is also 20 years old.....good idea, right?
KEY QUESTION: I was told that when a new AC system is installed, they like to install new refrigerant lines although the customer sometimes will opt to not have that done. Is it really important to install new refrigerant lines?
Reason I ask: my basement ceiling is finished with drywall. Replacing existing lines would involve ripping up the ceiling. However, one option that that would NOT involve ripping up ceiling drywall, would be install NEW lines by running them out a straighter path in which the lines would only be visible inside the house within a closet, except that, once outside the lines are outside they would be running undereath the deck and then run along the side of back of the townhouse for maybe 4 or 5 feet or so to get to the condenser location. Since my townhouse is a condo, I don't know if they would allow having the refrigerant lines be run from a different location in which the lines would be more visible than before. (The existing lines exit the house right behind where the condenser sits.) Also, the association may be installing a new deck within 10 years, and if new refrigerant lines were running underneath the deck then this could be problematic when they replace the deck. Do you think my concerns about running new lines from a different location aren't valid?
Thanks,
J.