You may know when you need to replace most things in our home. For example, your HVAC system air filter requires monthly replacement. Your pillows should be replaced every couple years. Your smoke detectors must be replaced every decade. But what about your heating system?
If your heating equipment has yearly maintenance and is kept in good shape, it can last 10-20 years. Once your heating equipment reaches 15 years of age , it’s really a good time to start considering replacing your heating system with a new, more energy-efficient furnace. Installed appropriately, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on energy costs. Even if your heating system still seems to be working fine, it’s ideal to start doing your research now instead of waiting until your equipment 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 take into account your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can seriously affect your home’s overall comfort and effectiveness. New heating equipment is only as good as the air duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason you want to research ahead of time 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 specific HVAC equipment – but it’s only until the end of 2016 and hasn’t been confirmed past 12/31/16. Use this link to help find local rebates available in your area : 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 the amount of money you’re spending on fixing your current furnace. You can normally repair a furnace – replace a part here, fix a component there – but in the end the cost of repairing your furnace will be greater than the cost of replacing it and then you really need to think about long-term spending. If you are having to repair your furnace on a yearly basis, it’s probably time to look into replacement.
If you aren’t sure about your heating equipment’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 go out and inspect your equipment and provide any options. Starting December 1st, Service Experts is providing discounts on certain home comfort systems so give us a call and discover how much you can save!