Should I Repair Or Replace My Furnace?
Furnace breakdowns can be unpredictable and uncomfortable, but one of Perfection’s technicians can help the process go quickly and smoothly! If you experience a furnace breakdown in Evansville, you may be wondering whether it is best to repair or replace your system. While repair seems like the most affordable option, it may not always be the best decision for your home. In this blog, we will list factors to consider when deciding whether or not to replace your furnace.
Repair Vs. Replace
Your furnace is one of the most important appliances in your home, which is why it is important to maintain proper care. When faced with the choice of repairing parts or replacing your whole furnace, there are many factors to consider. Below we have listed 6 aspects to consider before making your decision.
- Cost Of Repair
- Age
- Energy Bills
- Frequency Of Repairs
- Comfort Levels
- Home Value
Cost Of Repair
Purchasing a new furnace is an investment for your home. While it can be costly upfront, the furnace will serve your home for many years to come. When deciding whether to repair or replace, consider the cost of the repair. We recommend using the “$5,000 rule.” This rule of thumb takes the cost of the repair and multiplies it by the age of the system. If the total exceeds $5,000, it is probably best to replace your furnace.
Repair: If the cost of the repair is below the “$5,000 rule.”
Replace: If the cost exceeds the “$5,000 rule” or if the repair cost is close to the cost of replacement.
Age
Unfortunately, no appliances last forever. Most furnaces last 15-20 years if well maintained. Each year your furnace decreases in efficiency and effectiveness, which slowly raises energy bills and decreases home comfort. If your furnace is 15 years or older, we recommend considering replacement each time it needs to be repaired. Furnace maintenance plays a large role in the lifespan of your unit, which should be done once a year!
Repair: If your furnace has been well maintained and 15 years or younger.
Replace: If your furnace is 15 years or older.
Energy Bills
Before deciding whether to repair or replace, compare your recent energy bills. Your energy bills are a reflection of how much energy your furnace is using to heat your home. If they are higher than last year, it can be a sign your furnace is decreasing in energy efficiency. If the utility bill spike is caused by your furnace, the bills will likely continue increasing and costing you more money each month. New furnaces are extremely efficient and can save you money in the long run!
Repair: If your energy bills are affordable and your furnace is operating efficiently.
Replace: If you are experiencing high energy bills related to low efficiency.
Frequency Of Repairs
If you are constantly repairing your furnace, it is likely time to replace it! Frequent repairs are similar to putting a bandaid over a much bigger problem. Common repairs can indicate a dying furnace, and repairing it can be a waste of time and money. We understand that purchasing a new furnace can be costly, but it could save money in the future on expenses such as utility bills and repair costs.
Repair: If furnace repairs are low maintenance or minor repairs.
Replace: If you experience frequent and costly repairs.
Comfort Levels
Do you experience hot and cold spots throughout your home? Or are you constantly altering your thermostat to make your home more comfortable? If this or similar instances are happening, your furnace is struggling to heat your home. Your furnace may be strained due to a simple repair such as a clogged air filter or a more serious one such as a broken blower. Depending on age, your furnace could be using more energy to produce heat. One of our expert technicians can help determine if repair or replacement is the best option!
Repair: If you are comfortable in your home or comfort is harmed due to simple issues such as clogged air filters.
Replace: If your comfort is sacrificed due to costly repairs.
Home Value
If you are thinking about selling your home within the next few years, furnace replacement could be a smart decision. New appliances are a factor home buyers search for when purchasing a home, and a new furnace can increase your home’s value. Additionally, you can enjoy the benefits of a new furnace for the remaining seasons in your home!
Repair: If your furnace has many years ahead of it and operates efficiently.
Replace: If you plan on selling your home soon and a new appliance would boost your home’s value in the current market.
While each situation is different, we hope you consider the factors listed above when deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace. Our expert technicians can help you make the best decision for your home and comfort, so give us a call today!