A common question among Newtown PA homeowners is when to upgrade the furnace. It can be a tough call. The lifespan of a furnace is generally 15 to 20 years. However, some furnaces can last even longer. Here are some things to consider as you make your decision.
Has the Furnace Been Properly Maintained?
Industry studies reveal that regular HVAC maintenance can boost efficiency by up to 40 percent while reducing breakdowns by up to 95 percent. If your existing furnace is a reliable performer and you never skip a tune-up, the unit should be in reasonably good condition and may be worth repairing.
Is the Furnace Still Under Warranty?
Most new furnaces have a 10-year manufacturer’s limited parts warranty and a 20-year manufacturer’s warranty on the heat exchanger. It might make sense to replace the furnace after the limited parts warranty expires, especially if the maintenance history is unknown.
Is Your Heating System Costly to Operate?
Furnaces lose efficiency over time, especially with poor maintenance. Pennsylvania is no slouch when it comes to cold weather, and the hefty energy bills generated by an inefficient furnace can be shocking.
Meanwhile, new furnaces get more efficient every year. A heating system that’s only 10 years old can seem obsolete compared to the latest models. With Newtown’s cold winters, an inefficient furnace will cost you plenty.
Do You Want a High-efficiency System?
A heating equipment replacement can deliver an AFUE of up to 98.5 percent. It can increase your monthly energy savings by up to 50 percent. Inefficient furnaces pften work three times harder to generate the same amount of heat as high-efficiency systems. They are rarely worth the cost of furnace repair services.
An exception could be made if your existing heating system is less than 15 years old, reliable, and fully operational. In that case, a simple furnace tune-up can improve energy efficiency by as much as 40 percent.
At Service First Heating & Air Conditioning, we’re here 24/7 for emergency furnace repair services.. Schedule a visit online or call us directly to learn more.
