We know that buying a new furnace may not be a priority in the immediate future, but it’s wise to learn the keys that will likely influence your choice when you are ready to buy. Below are five important considerations that A1 Chesney 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 system is over 15 years old, those repairs can become significant. Costly, yet typical repairs include blower motor failures, ignition control failures and heat exchanger failures.
2. Operational Cost
The efficiency of gas furnaces in Calgary 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 very inefficient, with up to 40% of your heating dollars going out the window (in a manner of speaking). Even recently manufactured furnaces can waste up to 20%.
3. System Maintenance
A correctly maintained furnace will run more efficiently, lower the likelihood of expensive repairs and most importantly ensure your safety. Remember, 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
A1 Chesney Service Experts hears many questions concerning what really can be done to tune-up or maintain a furnace and there are actually many essential 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 certified technician who has the skill and hands-on experience to perform a tune-up should maintain heating equipment each year. To put it bluntly, without routine maintenance, frequent repairs combined with aged equipment are some of the more obvious signs of a need to replace your furnace.
High energy costs and the need to reduce energy consumption are also compelling reasons to weigh the 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.
Calgary area homeowners seeking more information are urged to call A1 Chesney Service Experts at 587-315-5271.