You likely know when you should replace most things in our home. For example, your heating and air conditioning system air filter requires monthly replacement. Your pillows require replacement every two years. Your smoke detectors should be replaced every 8-10 years. But what about your heating equipment?
If your heating equipment has seasonal maintenance and is kept in good working order, it can last 12-20 years. Once your heating system reaches 15 years of age , it’s really a good time to start thinking about replacing your heating equipment with an upgraded, more energy efficient heating system. Installed properly, these high-efficiency furnaces can save up to 20% on heating costs. Even if your heating equipment still seems to be working fine, it’s better to start doing your research now instead of waiting until your system breaks down in the middle of a long 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 important to think about your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can seriously affect your home’s overall energy efficiency and comfort. A new furnace is only as good as the air duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason to research in advance is to see what tax and manufacturer rebates are available to you. This year, you can earn U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for specific heating and air conditioning equipment – but it’s only before the end of 2016 and hasn’t been approved past 12/31/16. Follow this link to help locate local rebates available in your region : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
One thing to consider if your furnace isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re debating replacement is the amount of money you’re spending on fixing your current furnace. You can usually repair a heating system – change a part here, fix a piece there – but at some point the cost of repairing your heating equipment will be greater than the cost of replacing it and at that point you really need to think about long-term spending. If you are having to repair your furnace on a yearly basis, it’s probably time to look into replacement.
If you aren’t positive about your heating system’s ability to get you through the cold season safe and cozy, give Chief/Bauer Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to go out and inspect your system and provide any recommendations. Starting December 1st, Chief/Bauer is providing discounts on qualifying heating and cooling systems so give us a call and discover how much you can save!