Any time you make a major purchase, you are probably offered the option of purchasing an extended warranty or protection plan. From televisions and cell phones to automobiles, extended warranties and service plans can be secured for most of your large items. If you are like many people, you probably decline these optional purchases, thinking they aren’t worth the money. In many cases, you are probably right, and you will never end up using the plan or service. However, investing in regular maintenance can be like purchasing insurance that will more than pay for itself when it comes to your furnace.
The average cost of annual furnace maintenance could cost homeowners anywhere from $100-$200 each fall. While this expense might seem unnecessary if your furnace is working fine, investing in routine maintenance could save you a lot more in the long run. From costly repairs and premature equipment failure to lower energy costs investing $200 each fall could result in significant savings. Let’s take a look at why fall furnace maintenance is worth every penny you’ll invest.
Extended Furnace Life
The cost of purchasing and installing a new furnace could be as much as $10,000. Without any major damage or equipment failures, your furnace should last around 20 years. However, the good news is that with proper care and routine maintenance, you can extend the life of your equipment well beyond the 20-year life expectancy. Annual furnace maintenance will allow an HVAC technician to inspect your equipment and correct any minor issues that could cause potential problems down the line. Additionally, a service technician will also lubricate the internal parts, tighten belts, and repair loose connections. Performing regular preventive maintenance could reduce the stress that operation places on your equipment and help ensure that it lasts well into the future.
Fewer Costly Repairs
A system shutdown in the winter could create more than just a headache and uncomfortable temperatures in your home. If your system fails, you could be on the hook for costly repairs. When your furnace breaks down in the winter, you will require service as soon as possible. In some instances, an after-hours or weekend repair could come with a significant cost increase. The best way to prevent the expense of needed repairs is to have an annual maintenance service performed each fall. While many minor issues such as small cracks or leaks won’t usually cause an interruption, these issues could turn into major problems if left unaddressed. Investing in regular annual maintenance will ensure that any potential problems are identified and addressed before they can create serious issues and expenses.
Reduced Energy Bills
For many people, the winter can bring ice, snow, and below-freezing temperatures. These conditions can lead to significant energy bills during the heating season. While the average homeowner pays around $115 per month for energy costs, seasonal changes could create large fluctuations with utility bills. Experts estimate that your furnace could account for half of your energy bills in the winter. As a result, you’ll want to ensure that your system is running as efficiently as possible. An inefficient furnace could result in significant energy usage and costs. Fall maintenance can ensure that your system is tuned up and cleaned so that it is running at peak efficiency throughout the winter months. A small investment each fall could save you as much as 20 percent in energy costs each winter.
Regular maintenance for your furnace every fall could cost around $200. For this small investment, your equipment will be inspected, cleaned, and tuned up to ensure smooth operation and energy efficiency. Preventative maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of your equipment, reduce instances of repairs, and lower your energy costs. Given the amount of time and money fall furnace maintenance can save, it is well worth every penny you’ll spend.
