We know that not everyone may need a new furnace right now, but it’s important to learn the keys that would impact your decision when you do need to buy a new one. Below are the top 5 considerations that Robinson Service Experts advises our customers to think about during their evaluation:
1. Heating Repair Frequency
Similar to any other appliance, as furnaces age, the potential for frequent heating repairs increase. If your furnace is over 15 years old, those repairs can become significant. More common and costly repairs include blower motor failures, ignition control failures and heat exchanger failures.
2. Operational Cost
The efficiency of gas furnaces in Waukegan area homes today naturally influences your home energy bills, and the level of efficiency can vary tremendously depending upon the system you buy. Furnaces older than 15 years can be extremely inefficient, wasting up to 40% of the dollars you spend to heat your home. Even the latest models of furnaces can waste up to 20%.
3. System Maintenance
A well maintained furnace will operate more efficiently, reduce the likelihood of expensive repairs and above all ensure your safety. Remember, these are gas-fired appliances. Another important point is a properly maintained furnace will last longer before replacement is necessary.
4. Tune-up Checks
Robinson Service Experts receives a lot of questions concerning what truly can be done to tune-up or maintain a furnace and there are actually many vital checks and calibrations in the process:
- Gas Pressure and gas valve calibration
- Cleaning and checking safety switches
- Cleaning the heat exchanger
- Inspecting the heat exchanger for dangerous conditions
- Cleaning the blower system
- Cleaning and replacement of worn ignition sensors
- Much more...
5. HVAC Maintenance Interval
A trained and certified HVAC specialist who has the education to perform a tune-up must maintain heating equipment annually. In short, without routine maintenance, frequent repairs combined with dated equipment are a few of the more obvious signs of a need to replace your furnace.
Excessive energy costs and the desire to reduce energy consumption are also compelling reasons to consider replacement of your furnace. In fact, an independent study by Decision Analyst stated that nearly 20% of homeowners who recently replaced their furnace specifically did so to lower their utility bills.
Waukegan area homeowners seeking more information are urged to call Robinson Service Experts at 847-306-8730.