You probably know when it’s time to replace most products in our home. For example, your HVAC system air filter should be replaced each month. Your pillows need to be replaced every two years. Your smoke detectors must be replaced every decade. But what about your heating equipment?
If your heating equipment has seasonal maintenance and is kept in good operation, it can last 15-20 years. Once your heating system reaches 15 years of age , it’s probably a good time to start considering replacing your heating equipment with an upgraded, more energy efficient heating system. Installed appropriately, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on energy costs. Even if your furnace still seems to be operating fine, it’s better to start looking into your options 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 considering new furnace options it’s also critical to take into account your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can significantly affect your home’s overall comfort and energy efficiency. New heating equipment is only as good as the air duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason you need to research ahead of time is to see what tax and manufacturer rebates are available to you. Currently, you can receive U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for certain HVAC equipment – but it’s only through the end of 2016 and hasn’t been verified past 12/31/16. Visit this link to help find local rebates available in your region : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Another thing to take under advisement if your furnace 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 heating equipment – swap out a part here, fix a section 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 each season, 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 toasty, give Barlow Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your system and provide any options. Starting December 1st, Barlow is providing discounts on specific heating and cooling systems so call us and discover how much you can save!