Is It Time to Replace Your Furnace?

It’s cold outside, and you don’t want to come home to a cold house. Before your furnace breaks down and the mercury outside and even inside drops to sub-zero levels, it’s a good idea to look at and check it out.

So how do you know when it’s time to get a new one? There is a good chance that your furnace was already set up when you moved in. The first thing you need to do is find out how old your furnace is. A simple way to do this might be to check the original owner’s manual or call the manufacturer with your model number. In some cases, more sleuthing might be needed.

Average HVAC Furnace Lifespan

Today’s models work well for 20 to 30 years. if your furnace is more than 15 years old, it’s not a bad idea to start thinking about replacing it with a new one.

HVAC Energy Efficiency

Energy Star says that new Energy Star-qualified gas furnaces are usually 15% more efficient than standard gas furnaces, and Energy Star-qualified oil furnaces can be up to 4% more efficient than standard oil furnaces. People who buy new Energy Star gas furnaces save an average of $94 in energy costs a year, while people who buy new Energy Star oil furnaces save an average of $66.

HVAC Pros Know

if your furnace is giving off any of these “warning signs,” you should call an HVAC expert to check it out. Many times, changing the filter or adding a new thermostat will solve your problem. A simple repair may be all that is needed.

AFUE Rating

In order to figure out how efficient your furnace is, an expert will look at a number called AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency). If your AFUE rating is less than 80%, it’s time to get a new furnace that is more efficient. There are three types of new furnaces: mid-efficiency furnaces have about 80% efficiency; high-efficiency furnaces have about 90% efficiency; and ultra high-efficiency furnaces have variable-speed fans and controls that can make them up to 97% efficient.

HVAC Contractor Estimates

Because a furnace is a big investment, you might want to get prices from at least three trustworthy contractors before you buy one. It’s important for written estimates to include the name of the brand and type, as well as the size, efficiency rating, warranty, and so on. There should also be information about how to get rid of your old furnace, how much it will cost to get a permit or pay for it, and how much it will cost to make changes to your ductwork and other parts of your home.

Need your furnace or boiler replaced in Cecil County? Elkton Home Heating and Air is here for you! Call (410) 441-5077