You probably know when you need to replace most products in our home. For example, your heating and air conditioning system air filter should be replaced each month. Your pillows require replacement every two years. Your smoke detectors must be replaced every ten years. But what about your heating equipment?
If your heating equipment has seasonal maintenance and is kept in good shape, it can last 10-20 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 properly, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on utility costs. Even if your furnace still seems to be working fine, it’s better to start looking 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 contemplating new furnace options it’s also critical to take into account your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can seriously affect your home’s overall comfort and energy efficiency. New heating equipment is only as good as the duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason you want to research beforehand is to see what manufacturer rebates and tax credits are available to you. Right now, you can earn U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for specific heating and air conditioning 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 community : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Something to think about if your equipment isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re on the fence about replacement is what amount you’re spending on fixing your current furnace. You can typically repair heating equipment – swap out a part here, fix a component there – but in the end the cost of repairing your heating system will outweigh the cost of replacing it and at that point 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 consider replacement.
If you aren’t sure about your furnace’s ability to get you through the freezing temperatures safe and warm, give Falso Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your system and provide any suggestions. Starting December 1st, Falso is providing discounts on certain HVAC systems so contact us and find out how much you can save!