Most consumers decide to consider replacing their air-conditioning or heating system if it is outdated, uses a lot of energy, or needs a major fix. If you decide to replace your unit it can result in real energy savings. Lennox systems are as much as 60% more efficient than those systems made as little as ten years ago. So if you are worried about high energy costs or are having to pay for a costly repair, replacing your system can be the best option. The energy cost savings of a new unit may give a real boost to your budget as well as add to the value of your home. Call Chancey Heating & Cooling today and we can give you information on our financing the purchase. Saving energy as well as being comfortable all year round can make updating your HVAC system the best decision.

If you own a home, you have an air conditioning system, a furnace, or a boiler. These can give many years of trouble-free service if they are serviced properly.

The average air conditioner or furnace is designed with a 15-year design life in mind. This is 15 years with regular maintenance. They last only half as long – or less – if neglected or abused. You may be able to get an additional 5-10 years out of a system if it is well maintained. However, there comes a time when it just cheaper and easier to install a system that is up to date and more energy efficient than to keep repairing an older one.

In addition to cleaning and changing filters, there is not a lot, but what there is, is important.

For furnaces, particularly older ones, it is good to check the heat exchange annually to see if any leaks have developed. If it rusts through or cracks, it can fill your house with carbon monoxide and kill your whole family. So yes, regular maintenance is important. Even newer, stainless steel heat exchange can crack over time, so it is important to have the system checked at least annually, before the heating system.

With air conditioning systems, the problem is often leaks. Leaks in the refrigerant lines can result in the system going low on charge, which means it will lose cooling capacity. You won’t notice this until the hottest day of the year (usually when you have company) on a holiday weekend. And guess what? No one will be available then to come out and fix it. An annual service check, including a charge level check, can avoid this problem, particularly when you have an older system that may have slow leaks.

Air filters should be checked monthly. A disposable filter just just be replaced if it is dirty. Don’t try to wash it. Some pleated filters can go up to 3 months, but in cold or hot weather those should be checked more often.

According to ENERGY STAR, you can reduce your yearly energy bill by as much as $180 every year by installing and using a programmable thermostat. To maximize your energy savings, implement a schedule similar to the ones below: