With the official start of fall just a few days away, temperatures in the area are going to start dropping rapidly. When that happens, you need a heating system that can step up and provide warm, comfortable temperatures for your home all winter long. If there’s a problem with your existing heating system or you don’t think it will be able to last all winter, now is the time to schedule a replacement session. The comparatively mild temperatures of fall give you an excellent window to plan for such a session, and if your existing heater is on its last legs, then putting in a new one now will ensure that your home has the heating it needs all winter with no nasty surprises. But that still comes back to the basic question: do you need a new heating system?
Ultimately, only you can make that decision, since every heater is unique. But there are some guidelines that can help make that decision.
Is The Heater Still Under Warranty?
Every heating system comes with a warranty that covers the cost of the original parts for a set period of time. As long as the warranty is in effect, you should probably hold onto the heater and get it repaired or upgraded instead of replacing it. Indeed, even if your warranty has expired, the heater may still be able to function for months or even years without needing replacement. As long as it continues to do its job and costs stay down, it should be in no danger. Only when the warranty has expired and the costs are more than you feel the heater is worth should you consider replacing it with a new one.
Are The Costs Too Great?
Excessive costs for your heating system can boil down to two basic categories:
- Repairs. Chances are you haven’t had to repair your heating system since last winter, since it has sat unused throughout the summer. If you had to deal with an expensive repair last winter, however, or you’ve been waiting on a repair job that may prove more than the system is worth, Now is the time to act. The same thing is likely true for smaller repair jobs: if you dealt with more than two such jobs last winter and the warranty no longer covers replacement parts, the system may be ready for replacing.
- Monthly Costs. Monthly costs will gradually creep up throughout your heater’s life, though you can sow that process down with regular maintenance sessions and periodic care. Eventually, however, time will take its toll, and as the system wears out, monthly costs are going to rise. If you spent more than you feel the system is worth on heating costs last year, and the prospect of doing so again isn’t acceptable, then it’s time to call in the experts and get a new one in.
If you feel you need a new heating system in your South Jordan, UT home, contact At Your Service Plumbing, Heating & Air today!