You likely know when it’s time to replace most things in our home. For example, your HVAC system air filter should be replaced each month. Your pillows need to be replaced every two years. Your smoke detectors need to be replaced every decade. But what about your furnace?
If your furnace has annual maintenance and is kept in good working order, it can last 10-20 years. Once your furnace reaches 15 years of age , it’s really a good time to start contemplating replacing your heating system with an upgraded, more energy efficient heating system. Installed properly, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on utility costs. Even if your heating equipment still seems to be operating fine, it’s ideal to start looking into your options now instead of waiting until your furnace breaks down in the middle of a terrible freeze and you’re so desperate you can’t properly look into your options. When thinking about new furnace options it’s also important to think about your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can dramatically affect your home’s overall energy efficiency and comfort. New heating equipment is only as good as the air duct equipment that it’s installed in.
Another reason you need to research beforehand is to see what tax and manufacturer rebates are available to you. Currently, you can receive U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for qualifying HVAC equipment – but it’s only before the end of 2016 and hasn’t been confirmed past 12/31/16. Use this link to help discover local rebates available in your area : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Something to think about if your system isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re contemplating replacement is what amount you’re spending on repairing your current system. You can normally repair heating equipment – replace a part here, fix a section there – but eventually the cost of repairing your furnace will outweigh the cost of replacing it and at that point you really need to think about long-term spending. If you are paying for furnace repairs each season, it’s probably time to think about replacement.
If you aren’t positive about your heating system’s ability to get you through the freezing temperatures safe and cozy, give Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning a call and we’d be happy to go out and inspect your equipment and provide any options. Starting December 1st, Service Experts is providing discounts on specific HVAC systems so give us a call and discover how much you can save!