6 vital home units: When to check or replace your furnace or smoke alarms
When to replace or repair your water heater; HVAC unit; fire alarm system; and furnace and air conditioning filters is key to keeping these units running at their optimum.
These units are important to the proper functioning of a home and are a significant cost to replace.
A new HVAC system can easily run over $10,000. An energy star unit can cost more initially, but save in energy use over the years, according to the Federal Energy Management Program.
Despite our best efforts, however, these important units in our homes eventually need to be replaced. But how often?
How often to replace major systems in your home
Air filters: In general, says Consumer Reports, disposable air filters last three to 12 months. That can vary according to the system you have and where you live. To check, look at the filter. If it's dirty, it needs to be replaced.
Water heater: The EPA's Energy Star program recommends replacing your water heater if it's more than 10 years old. The need for a new unit can come before that. If your water heater is leaking, making knocking noises or emitting rusty-looking water, it's time for a new one.
HVAC system: On average, your air conditioner or heat pump needs to be replaced if it's more than 10 years old. For a furnace or boiler, it's 15 years. If your system is noisy or requires frequent repairs, it may be time to finance a new system.
Fire alarms: In residential homes, a fire/smoke alarm should be replaced if it's more than 10 years old. If a test of the alarm indicates it's not working, the battery should be replaced. If it's still not working, it's time for a new device. In apartment buildings and commercial structures, more elaborate systems are used. Experts say the system should be evaluated after 10 years.
Carbon monoxide detector: These devices last about 5 to 7 years. The back of the detector should have a date the unit was built or an expiration date.
Ceiling fan: The general consensus is that your ceiling or exhaust fan should last about 10 years. If it's not working, it should be replaced.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: 6 vital home units: When to replace your furnace or smoke alarms
