Heater servicing

Yes, the fact that it was 20 years old was a negotiating point in getting a lower price. I was expecting that it would need to be replaced within the next 1-3 years.

No, I think you are in the clear. You furnace model breaks down like this G8A-- 80+ gas horizontal series

75-----75,000 BTU gas input D--direct drive blower C--?? 30---2-1/2 or 3 ton a/c ariflow

-15--??

Seems to be a typical furnace model number.

Twenty years is a decent life span for most gas burning equiptment (except boilers) Most heating guys would tell you not to expect a horizontal or counterflow unit to last even that long. However, if it gets a clean bill of health, then at least it's up to you to decide if you want an new one or not.

The main factor that will come into play when deciding whether to replace both is whether the evaporator (the indoor section of the A/C) will match up to your new heating equipment without a lot of wasted ductwork and labor. In the old days we would just go with the evaporator new to match the heating equipment (approx. $150.00-$200.00 extra), but with the new minumum

13 SEER standards in place thanks to the govt., that would make a gross mismatch of old condenser and new evaporator. I would guess you'll just have to get bids and weigh your options based on the saleman's assessment of your given situation. Another consideration is that is you spend enough on high efficiency equipment, you can qualify for up to $1,500.00 of your taxes for 2009. Consult your tax advisor about wherther you want to consider that. Then again, maybe you already spent money on other qualifying items and have reached the max threshold for this year. Either way, I'm glad to see that you can make the decision at your leisure, and not scramble for winter. You know there's really no such thing as fall special pricing. Just negotioate your best deal when you are ready, or get the thing serviced for winter and forget about it.

HTH, Lefty