How Often You Should Replace Your Furnace?
You probably know when it’s time 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 shape, it can last 10-20 years. Once your heating equipment reaches 15 years of age , it’s probably a good time to start thinking about replacing your furnace with an upgraded, more energy efficient heating system. Installed properly, these high-efficiency furnaces can save up to 20% on utility 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 furnace breaks down in the middle of a long freeze and you’re so desperate you don’t have time to look into your options. When contemplating new furnace options it’s also crucial 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 furnace is only as good as the duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason you want to research beforehand is to see what tax credits and manufacturer rebates are available to you. Currently, you can get U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for specific heating and air conditioning equipment – but it’s only through the end of 2016 and hasn’t been confirmed past 12/31/16. Follow this link to help find local rebates available in your community : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Something to think about if your furnace isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re contemplating replacement is what amount you’re spending on fixing your current furnace. You can usually repair heating equipment – swap out a part here, fix a component there – but eventually the cost of repairing your heating system will be greater than the cost of replacing it and then you really need to examine long-term spending. If you are paying for furnace repairs on a yearly basis, it’s probably time to consider replacement.
If you aren’t sure about your heating system’s ability to get you through the cold season safe and cozy, give Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to come out and inspect your equipment and provide any suggestions. Starting December 1st, Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts is providing discounts on certain home comfort systems so give us a call and find out how much you can save!