We understand that purchasing a furnace may not be an immediate need, but it’s wise to learn the keys that will likely influence your choice when you are ready to buy. Below are the top 5 considerations that Gordon's Service Experts advises our customers to think about during their evaluation:
1. Heating Repair Frequency
Just like any appliance, as furnaces age, the potential for frequent heating repairs increase. If your system is over 15 years old, those repair can be especially expensive. More common and costly repairs include blower motor failures, ignition control failures and heat exchanger failures.
2. Operational Cost
The efficiency of gas furnaces in Oklahoma City 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, 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 properly maintained furnace will function more efficiently, decrease the likelihood of expensive repairs and above all ensure your safety. Remember, these are gas-fired appliances. Another point to mention is a properly serviced furnace will last longer before replacement is necessary.
4. Tune-up Checks
Gordon's Service Experts often receives questions pertaining to what actually 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 professional who has the education to perform a tune-up must maintain heating equipment annually. In short, without routine maintenance, frequent repairs combined with dated equipment are a few of the more obvious signals of a need to replace your furnace.
High energy costs and the need to reduce energy consumption are also compelling reasons to consider replacement of your furnace. In fact, an independent study by Decision Analyst suggested nearly 20% of homeowners who recently replaced their furnace specifically did so to lower their utility bills.
Oklahoma City area homeowners seeking more information are urged to call Gordon's Service Experts at 405-432-2197.