7 Factors to Consider When Replacing an Existing Home Heating System

Replacing a home heating system is a significant investment, and it is not always clear when to replace the old furnace. Here are a few factors to consider when thinking about replacing an existing home heating system.

1 – Age of the Existing Home Heating System

The average home furnace or heat pump has a lifespan of about 15 years.  If your furnace or heat pump is over 15 years old, you are living on borrowed time, and you may be already seeing a drop in energy efficiency and, an increase in the frequency and cost of repairs to the system.

2 – Efficiency of Existing Home Heating System vs. Current System

Furnaces and heat pumps that were highly-efficient, state-of-the-art technology 15 years ago are now inefficient compared to today’s technology. Every percentage point of improvement in your energy efficiency means more energy savings which mean lower energy bills.

Old home heating system in need of furnace replacement in Concord, MA

3 – Cost of Fuel

The highly volatile nature of fuel prices may be a factor, especially when using something like a fuel oil furnace. Installing a high-efficiency natural gas furnace or electric heat pump might be a way to make your fuel bills more predictable and manageable.

4 – Look at Your Ductwork

Ductwork is often overlooked when evaluating the need for a new home heating system. The ductwork might be contributing to a lack of performance getting warm air to where it is needed. Everyone should check their ductwork to ensure that it connects properly to the ductwork system, that it is sealed and insulated properly, and clean and unobstructed. Any leaks or blockages in the ductwork may lead to higher energy bills, so be sure to inspect your ductwork often.

5 – Is the Insulation Sufficient?

Most warm air leakage occurs in the attic through electrical and plumbing penetrations into the insulation. Other air leakages may come from gaps in corners, light fixtures, and recessed lighting. So look in the attic to see if you have enough insulation to help the furnace’s efficiency.

6 – Availability of Low-Interest Funding and Rebates

The State of Massachusetts offers rebates up to $2750 if you upgrade your current home heating system to a new energy-efficient hybrid HVAC system such as a Mitsubishi heat pump. The older your system, the higher the rebate. When you combine the money you save due to superior energy-efficiency with the Mass Save Rebate, it makes the purchase of a new home heating system an affordable option.

If you still need financial help to purchase a new furnace, the Home MVP Program, offered by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (MassDOER), provides 0% interest financing for up to seven years for residents who make energy-saving improvements to their homes.

7 – Installing a Programmable Thermostat

Most furnaces now interface with a programmable thermostat which provides you with heating options that minimize discomfort while maximizing energy savings. These thermostats can be programmed to a schedule, lowering the temperature when you are away and increasing it when you are at home. Some of these smart thermostats can be operated using an app on your phone.

Is It Time to Replace Your Old Home Heating System?

Muirfield Mechanical has been installing and repairing boilers, furnaces, and heat pump systems for Westford, Ayer, Sudbury, Marlborough, Hudson, Stow, Groton, Concord, Littleton, Bolton, Acton, Arlington, Lexington, Belmont, Cambridge, Newton, and the surrounding cities and areas around Eastern Massachusetts and the Greater Boston area for over 50 years now. Give us a call at (978) 263-7130, fill out our easy contact form, or send an email to lswanson@muirfieldmechanical.com to get a free, no-obligation estimate on a new heating system installation for your home or office. Our heating system specialists can assess your situation and develop the best solution that can be quickly installed at an affordable price.

2024/03/19