You may know when you need to replace most items in our home. For example, your HVAC system air filter requires monthly replacement. Your pillows need to be replaced every two years. Your smoke detectors need to be replaced every ten years. But what about your furnace?
If your heating equipment has routine maintenance and is kept in good operation, it can last 10-20 years. Once your heating equipment reaches 15 years of age , it’s likely a good time to start thinking about replacing your furnace with upgraded, more energy-efficient heating equipment. Installed properly, these high-efficiency heating systems can save up to 20% on utility costs. Even if your furnace still seems to be running fine, it’s better to start doing your research now instead of waiting until your furnace breaks down in the middle of a long 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. A new furnace is only as good as the air duct equipment that it’s installed in.
Another reason to research beforehand is to see what manufacturer rebates and tax credits are available to you. This year, you can receive U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for specific HVAC equipment – but it’s only until the end of 2016 and hasn’t been confirmed past 12/31/16. Follow this link to help locate local rebates available in your region : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Something to think about if your equipment isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re debating replacement is what amount you’re spending on repairing your current system. You can typically repair a heating system – change a part here, fix a piece there – but eventually the cost of repairing your furnace will exceed the cost of replacing it and at that point you really need to think about long-term spending. If you are having to repair your furnace each season, it’s probably time to think about replacement.
If you aren’t sure about your heating equipment’s ability to get you through the winter safe and warm, give Climate Control Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to go out and inspect your system and provide any options. Starting December 1st, Climate Control is providing discounts on certain HVAC systems so give us a call and discover how much you can save!