You probably 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 must be replaced every ten years. But what about your furnace?
If your heating system has annual maintenance and is kept in good working order, it can last 12-20 years. Once your furnace reaches 15 years of age , it’s really a good time to start considering replacing your heating equipment with upgraded, more energy-efficient heating equipment. Installed properly, these high-efficiency heating systems can save up to 20% on energy costs. Even if your heating system still seems to be operating fine, it’s better 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 considering new furnace options it’s also important to think about your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can seriously affect your home’s overall comfort and energy efficiency. A new furnace is only as good as the air duct equipment that it’s installed in.
Another reason you want to research ahead of time is to see what tax credits and manufacturer rebates are available to you. Right now, you can receive U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for specific HVAC 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.
Another thing to consider if your system 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 normally repair a furnace – change a part here, fix a component there – but at some point the cost of repairing your furnace will be greater than the cost of replacing it and that’s when 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 consider replacement.
If you aren’t confident about your heating system’s ability to get you through the winter safe and toasty, give Boehmers/Cronin Emery Home Services by Enercare a call and we’d be happy to go out and inspect your equipment and provide any recommendations. Starting December 1st, Boehmers/Cronin Emery is providing discounts on specific home comfort systems so contact us and find out how much you can save!