Furnace Repair or Replacement? Professional Tips for You
Summary:
How do you know when your furnace needs a repair or replacement? This article examines the difference between needing a furnace repair vs. furnace replacement.
Table of Contents
Introduction
As the temperature drops and the heating season kicks in, every homeowner is expected to know a few basic furnace repair tips in case their heating system breaks down. A reliable furnace is crucial to home comfort and indoor air quality. So when your furnace starts showing signs of wear and tear, you’re faced with a decision – repair or replace?
While furnace repair can often get your heater up and running again, there may come a time when repair is no longer the efficient or cost-effective option; therefore, a furnace replacement must be considered.
In this article, we will share professional tips to help you make an informed decision, including signs that indicate it’s time to replace your furnace, factors to consider when deciding between repair and replacement, and expert advice on how to extend the lifespan of your furnace.
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Signs That Indicate You Need Furnace Repair
1. Frequent Breakdowns
If your heating system breaks down frequently, it is a sign that it needs maintenance and repair. Frequent breakdowns without proper repair and maintenance service will eventually damage your system beyond repair and, in the meantime, add up in repair costs.
For older systems, heater repairs are relatively easy; finding replacement parts is a different story entirely. When the amount of parts that need to be replaced hits a certain point, it starts to make more sense to replace the system.
Frequent service calls indicate accumulated wear and tear, poor cleaning, or internal component damage. Either way, calling a heating expert ensures you avoid the problem and return your heater to a more reliable setting.
2. Strange Noises or Smell
A common symptom of furnace problems is strange noises or smells coming from the heating unit. If you notice that your furnace makes noises resembling those of a jet engine or an unbalanced washing machine or changes to its typical sound, then it may be a sign that your system is faulty.
Common causes of strange furnace sounds are:
- Blower motor failure
- Off-balance blower wheel
- Issues with the exhaust motor
- Loose ductwork causing banging or tearing sounds.
Burnt odors and other strange smells should also not be discounted, as they usually indicate a safety issue with your heating system. Most strange smells from your heater can often be traced back to its electrical components or power source. It could be melting electrical wires or a gas leak.
Common culprits are:
- Blower motor failure
- Furnace control board malfunction
- Issues with electrical wiring
- Gas leak
3. Inefficient Heating
If your heater is having trouble maintaining the temperature you have set on your thermostat or you notice that some parts of your home are not as warm as others, it is a symptom of a faulty heating system.
Uneven and inefficient heating could indicate several issues with your heating system, such as poor communication between the thermostat and heater, inadequate insulation, or ductwork problems. Whatever the issue, you must have it checked out immediately or spend your entire winter in the one room where the heating is regular.
4. Higher Utility Bills
It is normal for utility bills to increase slightly during winter as your heater works overtime to ensure your home temperature is comfortable and safe for your family’s needs. However, if you notice an astronomical hike instead of a slight increase, it may be a sign that your heater is inefficient and needs maintenance.
Common culprits for higher utility bills include:
- Leaking ductwork
- Age of the system
- Thermostat issues
When Replacement Becomes the Better Option?
The average furnace can last 15 to 20 years with proper repair and maintenance. However, here are some signs that a furnace replacement is needed.
1. Age of the Furnace
The average lifespan of a furnace is 15 to 20 years. If your furnace has surpassed or is nearing this age, it might be time to start looking for a replacement. Older furnaces are less efficient and prone to frequent breakdowns, making them money-draining pits.
With furnace replacement, you will benefit from improved features such as advanced filtration systems and programmable thermostats. Modern thermostats are also more efficient, require less maintenance, and lower operational costs.
2. Increased Energy Bills
If you notice a significant increase in your energy bills without a corresponding increase in the usage of your heating system, it could be due to inefficient furnace operation. The more complex your furnace works to provide the appropriate temperature for your home, the more energy it uses, hiking up your utility bills.
While you may be tempted to repair some components of your system, upgrading the system and saving money on unnecessary repairs is better.
3. Poor Air Quality
Your furnace plays a significant role in your home’s overall air quality. If you notice an increase in dust, soot, or humidity, it could be because your furnace cannot filter air properly. A new furnace with an advanced filtration system can significantly improve air quality.
Maintaining good indoor air quality is essential for the health and comfort of your family. An old furnace will struggle to filter out contaminants effectively, accumulating dust, pollen, and allergens. Upgrading to a new heater can significantly improve indoor air quality.
Cost Analysis of Furnace Repair vs. Replacement
Furnace repair and replacement are essential activities in the lifespan of the average furnace. While repair maintains the system’s performance and efficiency, replacement is necessary when repair becomes inefficient.
The general rule of thumb is that if repair costs are up to or more than 50% of the cost of a new furnace, you should opt for a replacement. The cost of repair and replacement might vary depending on the type, model, and condition of your furnace. You should also consider the availability and price of parts and labor.
Another consideration is the potential and long-term cost savings from getting an energy-efficient furnace. These furnaces can lower utility bills, reducing unnecessary financial burdens.
For a proper cost analysis of furnace repair and replacements, you should work closely with expert heating contractors on potential tax rebates, incentives, and financing options that can lessen the burden of getting a new furnace.
Furnace Repair Costs:
- Diagnostic Fee: $200-$2,000 (Depending on the technician and location. At Klondike Air we are only $89!)
- Parts and Labor: $100-$1,500 (depending on the types and quality of parts)
- Total Repair Cost: $200-$5,000
Furnace Replacement Costs:
- New Furnace Cost: $5,000-$10,000 (depending on the type, size, and efficiency of the furnace)
- Installation Labor Cost: $4,000-$8,000 (depending on the complexity of the installation and labor rates)
- Permits and Inspections: $100-$500 (depending on local regulations and requirements)
- Total Replacement Cost: $9,100-$18,500
*These are just estimates. Your actual cost may vary.
Factors to Consider When Making the Decision
1. Age of the Furnace
Before choosing between repair and replacement, consider the furnace’s age. If it is close to or over 15 years old, consider upgrading it instead of repairing it.
2. Furnace Cost
Perform a cost-benefit analysis comparing the repair cost to the price of a new furnace. If the repair cost exceeds 50%, investing in a new furnace is the better option. However, repairing the damaged component is more cost-effective if the price is lower.
3. Efficiency and Performance
Evaluate your furnace’s efficiency and performance. If it struggles to heat your home properly or results in high utility bills, you should have a heating expert propose solutions.
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Conclusion
Furnace repair or replacement? The correct answer depends on the situation’s complexity and the costs of various other factors, including labor, permits, new systems, and more. Deciding is more complex than you can imagine, so you need a heating expert to help you decide. Contact Klondike Air immediately for a quote.
FAQs
When to replace or repair a furnace?
You should repair your furnace when you notice a bump in utility bills, strange noises or smells in the system, or cold spots in your home. However, if the repair cost is more than or up to 50% of the cost of a new system, you should get a new one.
What do you replace a furnace with?
You should replace your heating system with a more efficient and better-suited system.
How do I know if my furnace needs replacing?
Your furnace needs replacing when it has aged more than 15-20 years and shows signs of inefficiency.
How do I know if my furnace needs repair?
Your furnace needs repair when you notice higher utility bills, frequent breakdowns, strange noises, and inefficient heating.
What factors should be considered when making the decision?
When deciding whether to replace or repair your furnace, consider its age, cost, and performance.
