You may know when you need to replace most items in our home. For example, your HVAC system air filter needs to be replaced monthly. Your pillows need to be replaced every two years. Your smoke detectors should be replaced every 8-10 years. But what about your heating system?
If your furnace has annual maintenance and is kept in good shape, it can last 10-20 years. Once your furnace reaches 15 years of age , it’s likely a good time to start contemplating replacing your heating system with a new, more energy-efficient furnace. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on heating costs. Even if your furnace still seems to be working fine, it’s ideal to start doing your research now instead of waiting until your furnace breaks down in the middle of a terrible freeze and you’re so desperate you don’t have the luxury of time and research. When thinking about 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 comfort and effectiveness. A new furnace is only as good as the air duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason you want to research in advance is to see what tax and manufacturer rebates are available to you. Right now, you can earn U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for certain heating and cooling equipment – but it’s only until the end of 2016 and hasn’t been approved past 12/31/16. Visit this link to help find local rebates available in your region : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
One thing to think about if your equipment isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re on the fence about replacement is what amount you’re spending on fixing your current furnace. You can usually repair a furnace – replace a part here, fix a piece there – but at some point the cost of repairing your heating system will outweigh the cost of replacing it and then you really need to examine long-term spending. If you are having to repair your furnace on a yearly basis, it’s probably time to think about replacement.
If you aren’t confident about your furnace’s ability to get you through the cold season safe and warm, give A-PLUS Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your system and provide any recommendations. Starting December 1st, A-PLUS is providing discounts on certain HVAC systems so contact us and discover how much you can save!