You likely 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 need to be replaced every ten years. But what about your heating equipment?
If your heating system has seasonal maintenance and is kept in good operation, it can last 15-20 years. Once your furnace reaches 15 years of age , it’s likely a good time to start contemplating replacing your heating equipment with a new, more energy-efficient furnace. Installed appropriately, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on energy costs. Even if your furnace 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 terrible freeze and you’re so desperate you can’t properly look into your options. When thinking about new furnace options it’s also important to consider 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 equipment that it’s installed in.
Another reason you need to research ahead of time is to see what tax and manufacturer rebates are available to you. Right now, you can earn U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for specific HVAC equipment – but it’s only before the end of 2016 and hasn’t been confirmed past 12/31/16. Visit this link to help locate local rebates available in your region : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Something to think about if your system isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re debating replacement is what amount you’re spending on repairing your current system. You can typically repair heating equipment – change a part here, fix a piece there – but eventually 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 repairing your furnace on a yearly basis, it’s probably time to think about replacement.
If you aren’t positive about your heating equipment’s ability to get you through the freezing temperatures safe and toasty, give Epperson Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your furnace and provide any recommendations. Starting December 1st, Epperson is providing discounts on specific home comfort systems so contact us and ask about how much you can save!