You may know when it’s time to replace most things 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 need to be replaced every 8-10 years. But what about your furnace?
If your furnace has seasonal maintenance and is kept in good operation, it can last 12-20 years. Once your heating system reaches 15 years of age , it’s probably a good time to start considering replacing your heating equipment with an upgraded, more energy efficient heating system. Installed appropriately, these high-efficiency heating units can save up to 20% on utility costs. Even if your heating equipment still seems to be operating fine, it’s best 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 don’t have time to look into your options. When contemplating new furnace options it’s also important to take into account your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can dramatically affect your home’s overall energy efficiency and comfort. New heating equipment is only as good as the air duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason to research in advance 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 HVAC equipment – but it’s only through the end of 2016 and hasn’t been verified past 12/31/16. Use this link to help find local rebates available in your region : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Another thing to think about if your furnace isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re on the fence about replacement is what amount you’re spending on repairs. You can normally repair heating equipment – replace a part here, fix a section there – but at some point the cost of repairing your heating equipment will be greater than the cost of replacing it and that’s when you really need to think about 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 positive about your heating equipment’s ability to get you through the winter safe and warm, give Peachtree Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your system and provide any suggestions. Starting December 1st, Peachtree is providing discounts on specific HVAC systems so give us a call and discover how much you can save!