You probably know when you should replace most products in our home. For example, your heating and cooling system air filter needs to be replaced monthly. Your pillows should be replaced every couple years. Your smoke detectors need to be replaced every 8-10 years. But what about your furnace?
If your heating system has seasonal maintenance and is kept in good working order, it can last 15-20 years. Once your heating system reaches 15 years of age , it’s likely a good time to start thinking about replacing your heating system with an upgraded, more energy efficient heating system. Installed correctly, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on energy costs. Even if your heating equipment still seems to be operating fine, it’s best to start looking now instead of waiting until your furnace 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 take into account your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can seriously affect your home’s overall comfort and effectiveness. A new heating system is only as good as the duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason to research beforehand is to see what tax credits and manufacturer rebates are available to you. Currently, you can earn U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for specific heating and cooling equipment – but it’s only until the end of 2016 and hasn’t been approved past 12/31/16. Follow this link to help discover local rebates available in your community : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
One thing to consider if your system isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re on the fence about replacement is how much you’re spending on repairs. You can typically repair heating equipment – replace a part here, fix a piece there – but at some point the cost of repairing your furnace 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 repairing your furnace each season, it’s probably time to look into replacement.
If you aren’t confident about your heating system’s ability to get you through the freezing temperatures safe and cozy, give Eveready Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to go out and inspect your furnace and provide any suggestions. Starting December 1st, Eveready is providing discounts on specific heating and cooling systems so give us a call and ask about how much you can save!