How Often You Should Replace Your Furnace?
You probably know when you should replace most items in our home. For example, your HVAC system air filter needs to be replaced monthly. Your pillows should be replaced every couple years. Your smoke detectors should be replaced every decade. But what about your furnace?
If your heating system has yearly 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 considering replacing your heating system with upgraded, more energy-efficient heating equipment. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on energy costs. Even if your heating equipment still seems to be working fine, it’s best to start doing your research now instead of waiting until your furnace breaks down in the middle of a deep freeze and you’re so desperate you don’t have the luxury of time and research. When contemplating new furnace options it’s also important to consider your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can dramatically affect your home’s overall comfort and effectiveness. A new heating system is only as good as the air duct equipment that it’s installed in.
Another reason to research in advance is to see what tax credits and manufacturer rebates are available to you. This year, you can earn U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for certain heating and cooling 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.
Another thing to think about if your furnace isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re contemplating replacement is the amount of money you’re spending on repairs. You can typically repair a heating system – replace a part here, fix a piece there – but eventually the cost of repairing your furnace will be greater than the cost of replacing it and at that point you really need to consider long-term spending. If you are having to repair your furnace on a yearly basis, it’s probably time to consider replacement.
If you aren’t sure about your furnace’s ability to get you through the winter safe and cozy, give Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning a call and we’d be happy to come out and inspect your system and provide any suggestions. Starting December 1st, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning is providing discounts on qualifying HVAC systems so contact us and discover how much you can save!