Jan 15, 2014
The recent Polar Vortex had us thinking here at the Rachel Kendall Team about protecting the various appliances and utilities in our homes to ensure we’re extending their lives as much as possible.
But how long exactly are things like roofs and central air conditioning systems supposed to last in between repairs?
Today, we break down five of the most common appliances/utilities and share with you how often you can expect to repair them – as well as how much it’s going to cost you!
Wake County Home Utilities and Amenities
Did you know that experts recommend that you save 1 percent of the purchase price of your home each year for maintenance and repairs?
That means if you have a $300,000 home, you should be saving $3,000 a year for these unexpected costs.
Here are five appliances in your home that will need to be replaced at some point and how much you can expect to spend:
Furnace or boiler: While the boiler will last anywhere from 13 to 21 years, the furnace will probably give you between 15 to 20 years.
- Cost to replace? A forced-air furnace may cost between $1,5000 and $2,100. Meanwhile, a split system will cost between $1,600 and $2,300. And an oil boiler will run you between $2,800 and $3,100.
- When to replace? Warning signs may include rooms that are often too hot or too cold as well as humidity problems.
Hot water heater. If it’s gas or electric, it will likely give you 10 years of good service. If it’s tankless, it could give you as much as 20.
- Cost to replace? Depending on if you have an energy-efficient model, tankless type or heat-pump water heater, these utilities can cost anywhere from $700 to $3,500 to replace.
- When to replace? EnergyStar.gov will provide you with valuable information on this.
Windows. Aluminum windows have the shortest lifespan at 15 to 20 years. Vinyl will last between 20 and 40 years. Wood will last upwards of 30 years.
- Cost to replace? Depending on the style, the cost of these windows will probably be between $300 and $500 per window.
- When to replace? Again, check energystar.gov. They can provide you with valuable tips on knowing when to replace.
Roofs. Again, lifespan varies on the materials used but if its asphalt shingles, the roof should last at least 20 years.
- Cost to replace? The cost per square foot can range from $5 to $7.
- When to replace? Start thinking about replacing your roof when you see cracked, curled or missing shingles. You can also go into the attic to check the underside of the roof for stains or wet areas.
Central Air Conditioning. These utilities often last between 10 to 15 years, depending on use.
- Cost to replace? Expect to pay between $1,600 to $3,300.
- When to replace? Just like with the furnace, look for rooms that are frequentlys too hot or too cold. Also, consider replacing your central air conditioning when you start having humidity problems or excessive noises.
Your Dedicated Wake County REALTORS®
We hope you found the above information helpful as a current home owner in Wake County.
Whenever you decide you’re ready to list your Wake County property on the local housing market, we’ll be here to help you with that as well! So contact us at the Rachel Kendall Team when you’re ready to sell!
We have years of experience helping home sellers just like you in such markets as:
- Cary, NC
- Apex, NC
- Garner, NC
And we’d love to help you as well!
Until next time,
Rachel