We realize that purchasing a furnace may not be an immediate need, but it’s wise 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 Rolf Griffin Service Experts advises our customers to think about during their evaluation:
1. Heating Repair Frequency
Similar to any other appliance, as furnaces age, the probability of frequent heating repairs increase. If your system is over 15 years old, those repair can be especially expensive. 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 Fort Wayne area homes today vary significantly and their efficiency directly influences your utility bills. Furnaces older than 15 years can be very inefficient, resulting in up to 40% of your home energy dollars being wasted. Even recently manufactured furnaces can waste up to 20%.
3. System Maintenance
A well maintained furnace will operate more efficiently, decrease the likelihood of expensive repairs and above all ensure your safety. After all, these are gas-fired appliances. Another point to mention is a properly tuned furnace will last longer before replacement is necessary.
4. Tune-up Checks
Rolf Griffin Service Experts hears many questions pertaining to what really can be done to tune-up or maintain a furnace and there are actually many important 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
- And many others...
5. HVAC Maintenance Interval
A certified professional who has the skill and hands-on experience to perform a tune-up must maintain heating equipment each year. To put it bluntly, without routine maintenance, frequent repairs combined with aged equipment are a couple of the more obvious indicators of a need to replace your furnace.
Out of control energy costs and the desire to reduce energy consumption are also compelling reasons to weigh the replacement of your furnace. In fact, an independent study by Decision Analyst shows nearly 20% of homeowners who recently replaced their furnace specifically did so to lower their utility bills.
Fort Wayne area homeowners seeking more information are urged to call Rolf Griffin Service Experts at 260-557-1275.