Should You Replace Your Heating System?

Should you replace your heating system?

If your furnace or boiler system is older than 15 years, or your heat pump is older than 10 years, the potential benefits and savings to you and your family from replacing your current system with a newer, more energy efficient one average about 20% in heating costs per year.

While the average life of a well maintained furnace is about 25 years, replacement may be worthwhile depending on the system age and the type of fuel your system uses. When evaluating whether or not to replace your furnace keep in mind that if your heat pump is over 10 years old or your furnace/boiler system is over 15 years old, there are newer models available that are more efficient and cost effective.  When analyzing whether replacement or repair is the right choice for you, also consider the following factors:

• Cost of repair vs. the age of your current system. If your system is older you may want invest that money towards replacement costs especially if you are only going to benefit from the repairs for a short duration or when taking into consideration the expected lifespan of your current system.
  • For example –  if your system is 20 years old, and the repairs exceed $1000, the expected life cycle of your system is an additional 5 years. The repair costs would average out to an additional $200 per year, not including monthly fuel expenses or the possibility of additional repairs.
• Consider the efficiency of your current system. You should be able to look up the manufactures’ efficiency ratings online for the make and model of your system. Newer systems can be up to 97% efficient depending of the fuel source. Keep in mind that fuel sources fluctuate and that will have an impact on your energy savings.

To help with the cost comparison, add up your fuel bills from the previous season. (Your local energy provider can help you with that information). Multiply that total by 20% then divide that sum into the cost of replacement. This total should help you see how many years it will take to recoup replacement costs when factoring in your cost for a more efficient system.

• For example – if your current system provides an 80% efficiency rate, replacing the unit with 97% efficiency would net you about a 20% savings each year.
• Consider the size of your house and the “heating load” of your home. The “heating load” is the amount of energy it takes to maintain a 65°F degree temperature in your home. To help you figure out the “heat load” of your home there are websites that can assist with a heat load calculator such as http://www.calculator.net/btu-calculator.html, or you can also have a certified repair technician give you a more detailed analysis.

As always, the experts at A/C Masters will be glad to help guide you through this process and help you decide whether or not a new furnace is a good investment for your comfort. So Call now, and let one of our skilled HVAC professionals maximize your comfort today!