How to Know When to Repair vs. Replace Your Furnace

Is your furnace on the fritz? As fall turns to winter and your furnace becomes a vital part of your home, it is important to take the time to perform system checks and annual maintenance. While we hope you can enjoy uninterrupted warmth this season, listed below are a few things to consider when deciding if it's time for a new furnace or just a service call.

How old is your unit? The expected useful life of a furnace can vary depending on the system specifications and how often it is used. If your furnace is on the tail end of its life cycle, it may be more beneficial to replace the unit than to pay the cost of continued service calls.

Has your furnace lost efficiency? If you notice your system has lost some efficiency, something as simple as replacing your air filter can help. Doing a home efficiency evaluation will help you determine if the furnace is the problem or if it’s something else.

Are you wasting money? As with many homeowner decisions, it comes down to cost versus benefit. Be sure to compare the costs of continued repairs and service calls to the expense of purchasing a new furnace. Include immediate costs in your comparison, as well as the potential cost savings of buying a new, more efficient system.

Are there any tax credits? Assuming a furnace lasts between 15 and 20 years, you can imagine the strides that have been made in efficiency and energy savings since your last purchase. Do your research and see if you can get any tax breaks by buying an energy star certified unit.

And even if you think the Internet has made you a DIY professional, it is always a good idea to call in a licensed expert to ensure your system is serviced safely. Think warm thoughts!