You likely know when you should replace most items in our home. For example, your heating and air conditioning system air filter needs to be replaced monthly. Your pillows should be replaced every couple years. Your smoke detectors must be replaced every ten years. But what about your heating system?
If your heating equipment has routine maintenance and is kept in good shape, it can last 15-20 years. Once your heating system reaches 15 years of age , it’s really a good time to start thinking about replacing your furnace with upgraded, more energy-efficient heating equipment. Installed appropriately, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on utility costs. Even if your heating system still seems to be operating fine, it’s better to start looking now instead of waiting until your equipment 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 think about 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 equipment that it’s installed in.
Another reason you want to research beforehand is to see what tax credits and manufacturer rebates are available to you. Currently, you can receive U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for qualifying heating and air conditioning equipment – but it’s only through the end of 2016 and hasn’t been approved past 12/31/16. Use this link to help discover local rebates available in your area : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
One thing to think about if your furnace isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re debating replacement is what amount you’re spending on fixing your current furnace. You can normally repair heating equipment – replace a part here, fix a piece there – but in the end the cost of repairing your furnace will exceed the cost of replacing it and then you really need to examine long-term spending. If you are paying for furnace repairs each season, it’s probably time to consider replacement.
If you aren’t confident about your furnace’s ability to get you through the cold season safe and toasty, give R & M Climate Control Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to come out and inspect your system and provide any suggestions. Starting December 1st, R & M Climate Control is providing discounts on certain HVAC systems so contact us and discover how much you can save!