(BPT) - A properly functioning HVAC system is crucial to ensure a warm, comfortable home this winter. For homeowners with an older heating system, the question of repair or replace is often top of mind as the temperatures drop.

Arriving at the right answer for your home often requires the support of a trained HVAC contractor. But there are several questions you can ask as you consider the reliability of your aging home comfort system.

No one wants to be left in the cold this winter - or left with an empty wallet. The heating and cooling experts at YORK^® offer these guidelines to help homeowners evaluate their options and find out which is the best long-term value for you.

When you can still repair

There may be instances when replacing the heating system isn't necessary. Some indications that your system may be worth repairing can include:

• It's less than 10 years old and/or is a high-quality, energy-efficient model.
• The repair is still covered under warranty.
• The out-of-pocket cost of the repair will be far less than the cost of replacement.
• Repairing the problem means that the specific issue isn't likely to reoccur throughout the system's remaining lifespan.
• Other HVAC components, such as the ductwork, electrical wiring and thermostat, are all in good working condition.

When it's time to replace

It can be much easier to recognize signs that it's time to replace a worn-out heating system, including:

• A system that is 10 or more years old.
• Frequent and repeated repairs that add up to be very costly.
• Even after repairs and/or maintenance, the system still doesn't keep your home comfortable.
• Very high utility bills. Modern heating systems are significantly more energy-efficient than older units.
• A desire to take advantage of widespread tax incentive programs, as well as utility and manufacturers' rebates, to reduce upfront costs.

Replacing a heating system

Many homeowners are surprised to learn a new heating system can improve the comfort of their home and help save significant money on utility costs over the long run. Heat pumps, in particular, are a smart choice for many homeowners - even if a gas furnace is currently in place. Today's high-efficiency heat pumps use less electricity to cut heating costs and are very efficient even in cold climates. For example, the YORK^® HH8 Side-Discharge Heat Pump can reduce the average energy bill by as much as 50% compared to less efficient HVAC systems. Plus, the YORK^® HH8 heat pump is equipped with variable speed technology that allows it to precisely match desired temperature settings and provide a more comfortable home.

A historic level of HVAC savings programs are available to help off-set the cost of installing a high-efficiency heat pump. Through a combination of tax rebates and utility and manufacturers' offers, qualifying homeowners can save up to 100% of the cost to install some heat pumps. Additionally, some manufacturers offer simplified financing options with fixed monthly payments to make the investment of a heat pump more manageable than paying out-of-pocket repair costs on an existing heating system.

To learn more about today's heat pump innovations and cost-saving programs, visit YORK^® at: york.com/residential-equipment/heating-and-cooling/split-system-heat-pumps.