You probably know when it’s time to replace most things in our home. For example, your heating and air conditioning 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 heating system?
If your heating system has yearly maintenance and is kept in good operation, it can last 12-20 years. Once your heating system reaches 15 years of age , it’s likely a good time to start thinking about replacing your heating equipment with a new, more energy-efficient furnace. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on energy costs. Even if your heating system still seems to be operating fine, it’s better to start looking now instead of waiting until your system breaks down in the middle of a terrible freeze and you’re so desperate you can’t properly look into your options. When considering new furnace options it’s also important to consider your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can seriously affect your home’s overall comfort and effectiveness. A new furnace is only as good as the air duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason you need to research beforehand is to see what tax credits and manufacturer rebates are available to you. This year, you can get U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for certain 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 discover local rebates available in your area : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
One thing to take under advisement if your furnace isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re debating replacement is how much you’re spending on repairs. You can usually repair heating equipment – replace a part here, fix a component there – but eventually the cost of repairing your heating equipment will outweigh the cost of replacing it and then you really need to consider long-term spending. If you are paying for furnace repairs on an annual basis, it’s probably time to consider replacement.
If you aren’t confident about your furnace’s ability to get you through the cold season safe and toasty, give Fras-Air/General Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to come out and inspect your equipment and provide any suggestions. Starting December 1st, Fras-Air/General is providing discounts on certain heating and cooling systems so give us a call and ask about how much you can save!