You probably know when you need to replace most things in our home. For example, your heating and cooling system air filter requires monthly replacement. Your pillows need to be replaced every two years. Your smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years. But what about your furnace?
If your heating equipment has yearly maintenance and is kept in good working order, it can last 10-20 years. Once your heating system reaches 15 years of age , it’s really a good time to start considering replacing your heating equipment with a new, more energy-efficient furnace. Installed properly, these high-efficiency furnaces can save up to 20% on heating costs. Even if your heating equipment still seems to be operating fine, it’s better to start doing your research 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 considering new furnace options it’s also critical to consider your home’s air duct system. Leaking and undersized ducts can significantly affect your home’s overall comfort and effectiveness. A new heating system is only as good as the air duct system that it’s installed in.
Another reason you want to research beforehand is to see what tax and manufacturer rebates are available to you. This year, you can receive 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 verified past 12/31/16. Visit this link to help find local rebates available in your area : https://www.energystar.gov/rebate-finder.
Something to consider if your equipment isn’t quite 20 years old and you’re contemplating replacement is what amount you’re spending on repairing your current system. You can typically repair a heating system – swap out a part here, fix a component there – but in the end the cost of repairing your heating system will be greater than the cost of replacing it and that’s when you really need to consider long-term spending. If you are having to repair 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 cozy, give Niagara Home Services by Enercare a call and we’d be happy to visit your home and inspect your equipment and provide any recommendations. Starting December 1st, Niagara Home Services by Enercare is providing discounts on certain home comfort systems so contact us and discover how much you can save!