You may know when you should replace most things in our home. For example, your HVAC system air filter should be replaced each month. Your pillows should be replaced every couple years. Your smoke detectors should be replaced every 8-10 years. But what about your heating system?
If your furnace has routine maintenance and is kept in good shape, it can last 12-20 years. Once your furnace reaches 15 years of age , it’s really a good time to start contemplating replacing your heating equipment with upgraded, more energy-efficient heating equipment. Installed appropriately, these high-efficiency heating systems can save up to 20% on heating costs. Even if your heating system still seems to be running fine, it’s ideal to start looking now instead of waiting until your furnace breaks down in the middle of a terrible freeze and you’re so desperate you can’t properly look into your options. When contemplating new furnace options it’s also important to consider your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can dramatically affect your home’s overall energy efficiency and comfort. A new heating system 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 manufacturer rebates and tax credits are available to you. Currently, you can get U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for certain HVAC equipment – but it’s only until the end of 2016 and hasn’t been confirmed past 12/31/16. Follow this link to help find local rebates available in your region : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
One thing to think about if your system isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re on the fence about replacement is the amount of money you’re spending on repairing your current system. You can normally repair a heating system – replace a part here, fix a piece there – but eventually the cost of repairing your heating system will exceed the cost of replacing it and then you really need to consider long-term spending. If you are having to repair your furnace on an annual 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 McElroy Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to go out and inspect your system and provide any options. Starting December 1st, McElroy is providing discounts on certain home comfort systems so contact us and ask about how much you can save!