Furnace Repair vs. Furnace Replacement. Which Do You Need?
 

Is your home’s furnace on the fritz? A functional furnace is of the utmost importance during the heating season. Your family depends on this vital appliance to keep your home warm and comfortable during the coldest months of the year.



However, if you’ve noticed an increase in breakdowns and repair costs, you may be asking yourself if it makes sense to continue repairing the unit, or if it may be time to consider a replacement.


When should I repair my furnace?

Generally, a furnace will last for around 15-20 years. If your unit is younger than this, then you likely will be able to get the issue(s) repaired. Most heating professionals will advise that it’s worth repairing your furnace if the repair is less than 1/3 of the cost of what it would be to replace the system.



Many homeowners will worry that it’s time for replacement when they have a problem with heating all rooms and levels of their home evenly. However, less costly alternatives often can take care of these common problems. For example, you may benefit from having a new thermostat installed, or you may need to have your ductwork cleaned for better air flow.



One simple thing you can do to help lengthen the life of your furnace and prevent frequent and costly breakdowns is to schedule annual maintenance. At Oncourse Home Solutions, our trained heating technicians can provide comprehensive furnace maintenance appointments on a yearly basis to help keep your system running efficiently all season long.



When should I replace my furnace?

If your furnace is at the 15-20 year mark, it may be time to consider replacing it even if it isn’t experiencing any serious problems. Furnaces this old are not as energy-efficient as newer models. You may be spending more than you need to on your utility bills because your heating system is using more energy.



Additionally, if you’ve noticed that you are scheduling repair after repair, it’s a sign that your furnace is struggling to keep up with your home’s heating demands. A heating professional can help you choose a new unit that is properly sized for your family’s heating needs.



Regardless of whether you choose to repair or replace your furnace, keep up with routine maintenance. During a maintenance appointment, a trained technician will be able to thoroughly inspect, clean, and check your system to be sure everything is functioning as it should. Potential problems may be caught and taken care of before they result in a breakdown.