As of right now our central air doesn't work unless we recharge it every summer. Our boiler is old and leaks. We are throwing around the idea of changing to forced air but aren't sure what the better/cheapest route would be. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
If you presently have the duct work to the rooms for central AC then it should be no problem to install a new HVAC system. Then you can eliminate all the pipes, radiators along with the boiler. May get a small fortune for the copper at the scrap yard! How old is the present AC system? Do you know where the Freon leak is located? A good service tech will look for it after recharging the unit using an electronic detector. Sometimes it'll be from a bad fitting or a leaky seal on the compressor. Those aren't horribly expensive to repair/replace. Then you can see about having an electric heating element box added to the existing air handler above the AC coils. Most HVAC companies save reusable units and components for repairs and installations in rental properties. They sell those parts for much less for being used and make their money on the labor. Something to ask about if you're working on a tight budget.
I would replace them. I live in the midwest where it is hot in the summer and cold in the winter. When my central air quit, the repairman recommended just getting a new unit and furnace as well. I suspected they just wanted my money, but after consulting with people who know about these things, I decided to replace the furnace and air conditioner. I have a two story house and it is not unusual to have $300 heating and cooling bills. The winter after the furnace replacement was cold, but my gas usage was literally half of what it was the winter before. The next summer, the same thing with my cooling costs, about $100 a month less. It will cost a lot to replace them, but it will save money in the long run. Of course call someone else for another opinion.
From what I know you would be much better off to change the system to forced air. There are discounts and you also get a break on your taxes. I suggest you shop around and get at least three estimates. Do check the creditability of the Company you choose. I would call the Better Business Bureau to see if there is bad information about them. Most of all you will benefit in the utility bills. The savings will be good and the cost will pay for itself in a few years.
