How Often You Should Replace Your Furnace?
You probably know when it’s time to replace most products in our home. For example, your heating and cooling system air filter needs to be replaced monthly. Your pillows should be replaced every couple years. Your smoke detectors should be replaced every 8-10 years. But what about your furnace?
If your heating equipment has annual maintenance and is kept in good operation, it can last 10-20 years. Once your heating system reaches 15 years of age , it’s probably a good time to start considering replacing your heating system with upgraded, more energy-efficient heating equipment. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency furnaces can save up to 20% on utility costs. Even if your heating equipment still seems to be running 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 the luxury of time and research. When contemplating new furnace options it’s also crucial to take into account your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can dramatically affect your home’s overall energy efficiency and comfort. New heating equipment is only as good as the air duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason you want to research beforehand is to see what manufacturer rebates and tax credits 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 through 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.
One thing to think about if your equipment isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re contemplating replacement is how much you’re spending on repairs. You can usually repair heating equipment – swap out a part here, fix a section there – but eventually the cost of repairing your heating equipment will be greater than the cost of replacing it and that’s when you really need to think about long-term spending. If you are repairing your furnace on a yearly basis, it’s probably time to look into replacement.
If you aren’t sure about your furnace’s ability to get you through the cold season safe and warm, give Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your equipment and provide any options. Starting December 1st, Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing is providing discounts on specific heating and cooling systems so call us and ask about how much you can save!