Furnace replacement is stressful for homeowners, but it doesn’t have to be. There are serious advantages to getting a jump-start on the process instead of waiting until after a total failure. The Seider Heating, Plumbing & Electrical pros are sharing the top reasons to shop early, plus tips to keep in mind:
- Age—the average furnace lasts between 15 and 20 years, although some can last for 30. But as a unit ages, it’s more likely to break down without a repair being possible or practical. We encourage our customers to think about what features they want in a new furnace before their current system stops working. Top features include improved efficiency, better comfort, or the option of zoning.
- Safety—an aging furnace can develop dangerous problems that don’t have warning signs, like an electrical failure or carbon monoxide leak. When your system needs ongoing repairs, put your family’s safety first and talk to a professional about furnace replacement. A Seider expert will carefully install your new system, so it operates at peak efficiency and keeps your family safe for years to come.
- Efficiency—it’s normal for an aging furnace to lose efficiency, especially if it hasn’t received regular maintenance. And with lowered efficiency comes higher energy bills and less comfort. The furnace will struggle to reach your set temperature, so you’ll have to turn the thermostat up. Keep an eye on your operating costs. If you notice a steady increase, it’s time to start looking at new options.
- Cost—an older, inefficient system is expensive to keep running, especially if it needs frequent service. Eventually, the money you spend on repairs should be put toward a new system. An energy-efficient unit from Carrier® can lower your energy bills and save you money. Let our experts help you decide when it’s smarter to invest in a replacement instead of another repair.
What You Should Know Before Shopping for a Furnace Replacement
When it’s time to shop, check system ratings. Annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) measures how efficiently the system converts fuel into energy. A 90 percent AFUE means 90 percent of the fuel becomes heat and only 10 percent is wasted. The Department of Energy (DOE) states the minimum requirement is 80 percent, but ratings can go as high as 98 percent.
We also encourage you to embrace new technology. Ask us about high-efficiency systems paired with Wi-Fi programmable thermostats, which automatically adjust to maximize your savings.
Finally, consider the warranty. A furnace is a pricey investment, and a solid warranty can cover the cost of a future repair or part replacement. Keep in mind that warranty length often varies depending on the furnace parts, and do not typically cover labor costs.
Whether you’re just starting to think about a new system or are ready to buy, give our experts a call—we’re happy to steer you in the direction that’s best for your home comfort needs and budget.