You may know when you should replace most things in our home. For example, your HVAC system air filter requires monthly replacement. Your pillows require replacement every two years. Your smoke detectors need to be replaced every ten years. But what about your furnace?
If your furnace has seasonal maintenance and is kept in good shape, it can last 12-20 years. Once your heating equipment reaches 15 years of age , it’s really a good time to start considering replacing your heating equipment with a new, more energy-efficient furnace. Installed appropriately, these high-efficiency furnaces can save up to 20% on utility costs. Even if your heating system still seems to be working fine, it’s best to start doing your research now instead of waiting until your system breaks down in the middle of a deep freeze and you’re so desperate you don’t have time to look into your options. When thinking about 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 energy efficiency and comfort. New heating equipment is only as good as the air duct equipment that it’s installed in.
Another reason to research in advance is to see what manufacturer rebates and tax credits are available to you. Currently, you can earn U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for certain heating and air conditioning equipment – but it’s only before the end of 2016 and hasn’t been approved past 12/31/16. Visit this link to help discover local rebates available in your region : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Something to take under advisement if your furnace isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re debating replacement is the amount of money you’re spending on repairs. You can normally repair a furnace – swap out a part here, fix a piece there – but eventually the cost of repairing your furnace will exceed the cost of replacing it and then you really need to consider long-term spending. If you are paying for furnace repairs on a yearly basis, it’s probably time to think about replacement.
If you aren’t positive about your furnace’s ability to get you through the cold season safe and toasty, give Roy Inch & Sons Home Services by Enercare a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your equipment and provide any options. Starting December 1st, Roy Inch & Sons is providing discounts on specific home comfort systems so give us a call and ask about how much you can save!