We realize 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 Church Services advises our customers to think about during their evaluation:
1. Heating Repair Frequency
Like any type of appliance, as furnaces age, the potential for frequent heating repairs increase. If your system is over 15 years old, you might start to experience relatively expensive repairs. Some of the typical repairs include blower motor failures, ignition control failures and heat exchanger failures.
2. Operational Cost
The efficiency of gas furnaces in Houston area homes today can vary widely and has a direct correlation to the amount of money you pay your utility company each month. 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 run more efficiently, lower the likelihood of expensive repairs and most of all ensure your safety. Don’t forget, these are gas-fired appliances. Another point to mention is a properly tuned furnace will last longer before replacement is needed.
4. Tune-up Checks
Church Services hears many 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
- Others...
5. HVAC Maintenance Interval
A certified professional who has the knowledge, skills and experience to perform a tune-up must maintain heating equipment each year. In short, without routine maintenance, frequent repairs combined with aged equipment are a few of the more obvious signs of a need to replace your furnace.
High energy costs and the need to reduce energy consumption are also pressing 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.
Houston area homeowners seeking more information are urged to call Church Services at 713-396-3760.