You probably know when you need to replace most things in our home. For example, your heating and air conditioning system air filter requires monthly replacement. Your pillows need to be replaced every two years. Your smoke detectors must be replaced every decade. But what about your heating equipment?
If your heating equipment has seasonal maintenance and is kept in good shape, it can last 15-20 years. Once your heating equipment reaches 15 years of age , it’s probably a good time to start thinking about replacing your heating system with upgraded, more energy-efficient heating equipment. Installed properly, these high-efficiency heating systems can save up to 20% on heating 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 deep freeze and you’re so desperate you can’t properly look into your options. When thinking about new furnace options it’s also critical to think about your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can seriously 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 you need to research in advance is to see what manufacturer rebates and tax credits are available to you. Currently, you can get U.S. government tax credits of up to $500 for specific heating and cooling equipment – but it’s only through the end of 2016 and hasn’t been approved past 12/31/16. Follow this link to help find local rebates available in your area : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Another thing to take under advisement if your equipment isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re debating replacement is how much you’re spending on fixing your current furnace. You can normally repair heating equipment – replace a part here, fix a component there – but in the end the cost of repairing your furnace will outweigh the cost of replacing it and at that point you really need to consider long-term spending. If you are paying for furnace repairs on an annual basis, it’s probably time to think about replacement.
If you aren’t sure about your furnace’s ability to get you through the freezing temperatures safe and toasty, give BW/Cook Service Experts a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your system and provide any recommendations. Starting December 1st, BW/Cook is providing discounts on qualifying HVAC systems so contact us and find out how much you can save!